Category: News Updates

Buy to let investment heads north after stamp duty surcharge

Buy to let investment in England has notably shifted northwards over the past decade, with a clear decline in landlord purchases in London and the south following the introduction of the stamp duty surcharge on second homes. This change reflects a significant rebalancing of the buy to let market, with the Midlands and northern regions […]

Councils expand schemes with private landlords to tackle homelessness

Two local councils have expanded initiatives working with private landlords to address homelessness and reduce reliance on temporary accommodation. Mansfield District Council and Knowsley Council are offering financial support and innovative schemes to help vulnerable tenants secure stable housing more quickly. Mansfield District Council extends private rental access scheme Mansfield District Council has confirmed it […]

Councils expand schemes with private landlords to tackle homelessness

Two local councils in England are expanding initiatives that collaborate with private landlords to address homelessness by providing financial support and tenancy security. These schemes aim to reduce reliance on temporary accommodation and help vulnerable households secure stable housing more quickly. Mansfield District Council extends private rental access scheme Mansfield District Council has confirmed it […]

Landlords told to act now ahead of 2035 Decent Homes Standard deadline

The UK government is urging private landlords to begin upgrading their rental properties to meet the new Decent Homes Standard well before the 2035 deadline. This call to action reflects the government’s intention to ensure rental homes provide safe, comfortable, and well-maintained living conditions for tenants across the country. Understanding the Decent Homes Standard The […]

Government announce fee for tenants appealing rent increases

The UK government has announced a new £47 fee for tenants who wish to appeal rent increases through the first-tier property tribunal. This move forms part of proposed legislation aimed at introducing a revised fees framework within the Property Chamber, intended to balance operational costs with access to justice. New fee for rent increase appeals […]

Anti-landlord legislation is forcing Scottish landlords out

Scottish landlords are increasingly considering leaving the private rented sector amid growing concerns over government legislation and political rhetoric. John Blackwood, chief executive of the Scottish Association of Landlords (SAL), highlights the urgent need for a shift in attitude from Scottish politicians ahead of the May elections. Political Rhetoric Driving Landlords Away John Blackwood warns […]

Courts not ready for Renters’ Rights Act claim Peers

The government faces criticism from members of the House of Lords over the readiness of the court system to handle claims under the forthcoming Renters’ Rights Act. Concerns focus on whether the courts can manage the expected rise in possession cases following the abolition of Section 21 notices on 1 May 2026. Concerns over court […]

Heat pumps and solar panels will be required in new homes

New regulations in England will require all new homes to be fitted with solar panels and heat pumps, marking a significant shift in building standards aimed at reducing reliance on fossil fuels. These changes form part of the Future Homes Standard, which will prohibit new properties from connecting to the gas network from 2028. The […]

Renters’ Rights Act – What should be top of the list for landlords?

The Renters’ Rights Act 2025 is set to bring the most significant reforms to England’s private rented sector in over three decades. With the legislation due to take effect on 1 May 2026, landlords must prepare for sweeping changes that will alter tenancy agreements, eviction procedures, rent increases, and local authority oversight. Major changes under […]

Angela Rayner urges Keir Starmer to pick fights with landlords

Angela Rayner, former deputy leader of the Labour Party, has called on Sir Keir Starmer to adopt a more confrontational stance towards landlords and freeholders. Speaking at a fundraising event in London, she highlighted widespread public frustration with the housing system and urged the government to take stronger action. Labour urged to ‘pick more fights’ […]