This week’s landlord news highlights key developments ahead of the Renters’ Rights Act implementation, including tenant challenges to pet refusals, landlord tenant selection strategies, and new government guidance. Additionally, landlords are warned about rising fines related to council licence applications.

Tenants to Challenge Pet Refusals in Court Before Ombudsman Launch

The government has acknowledged it has not conducted a full impact assessment regarding tenants’ ability to challenge pet refusals before the Ombudsman service becomes operational. This service is scheduled to commence in Phase 2 of the Renters’ Rights Act, expected in late 2026.

In the interim, Housing Minister Matthew Pennycook confirmed that tenants who believe their landlord has unreasonably refused a pet request will be able to take their case to court. Under the forthcoming Renters’ Rights Act, landlords will be prohibited from unreasonably refusing such requests, signalling a significant shift in tenant rights concerning pet ownership.

Landlords Prepare for Stricter Tenant Selection

A recent survey by Paragon reveals that 69% of landlords plan to adopt more rigorous tenant vetting processes once the Renters’ Rights Act takes effect. Furthermore, 70% intend to be more selective about where they advertise their properties.

Additional findings from the survey include:

• 43% of landlords express concern about problematic tenants, particularly those with rent arrears.
• 39% feel the current mandatory grounds for possession are insufficient.
• 35% anticipate financial impacts resulting from the new legislation.
• 53% are considering rent increases, with 37% reviewing rents more frequently.
• 18% plan to explore cost-saving measures, such as adjusting the frequency of maintenance visits.

Lisa Steele, Mortgage Lending Director at Paragon Bank, commented that landlords are “adapting their approach accordingly” in response to the anticipated changes.

Increase in Fines for Incorrect Council Licence Applications

Landlords are being urged to exercise caution when completing council licence application forms, as errors can lead to costly fines. Landlord Licensing & Defence has described a recent rise in penalties as a “disturbing and unlawful enforcement tactic.”

Some landlords have been fined for submitting additional licensing forms instead of the mandatory ones. This misstep can result in councils rejecting the application, stripping landlords of statutory protection under the Housing Act 2004, and subsequently issuing civil penalty fines for operating an unlicensed House in Multiple Occupation (HMO).

Experts advise landlords to verify requirements directly with their local council or seek professional assistance before and during the application process to avoid such pitfalls.

Government Issues New Guidance for Tenants

On 7 April, the government published updated guidance for tenants regarding rent repayment orders and the eviction process under the forthcoming Renters’ Rights Act. The guidance instructs tenants on how to verify if their landlord has committed an offence by checking council licensing registers or contacting councils directly with specific questions.

It also outlines the types of evidence tenants should gather, including written communications with landlords or letting agents. For landlords, the guidance clarifies that the First Tier Tribunal must be satisfied that there is a valid reason for failing to meet legal requirements when contesting claims.

What this means for landlords

Landlords face a landscape of increased scrutiny and legal obligations. The ability for tenants to challenge pet refusals in court before the Ombudsman’s establishment means landlords should carefully consider pet policies and ensure refusals are reasonable and well-documented.

The survey results suggest landlords are already preparing for tighter tenant vetting and potential rent adjustments, reflecting concerns about tenant reliability and financial impacts of new legislation. Additionally, the rise in fines for incorrect licence applications underscores the importance of meticulous compliance with local authority requirements to avoid penalties.

Finally, the new government guidance for tenants signals a more informed tenant base, likely leading to increased disputes and tribunal cases. Landlords should ensure their documentation and communication practices are robust to support their position in any legal proceedings.

Snippets of Interest

Recent news highlights include tenants advocating for more selective landlord licensing schemes, complexities around VAT for furnished holiday lets catching landlords unaware, and reports of landlords evicting tenants ahead of new laws designed to prevent no-fault evictions in England.

Source: Based on reporting from The Landlord Law Blog

TLA Training Academy

The Landlord Association has launched its new Training Academy for UK landlords, providing structured guidance, compliance education, and practical knowledge to support landlords at every stage. Members can now complete the programme and become TLA Certified Landlords at no additional cost as part of their membership.

Landlords can explore the Academy here: https://landlordassociation.org.uk/tla-academy/

Those looking to join and access the full training and certification can register here: https://landlordassociation.org.uk/landlord-association-membership-uk/

TLA update

The Landlord Association is currently onboarding new service providers into its Trusted Partner Hub, a new initiative designed to support landlords, tenants, letting agents, and property managers with vetted, high-quality services. As one of the fastest growing landlord associations in the UK, TLA offers partners direct access to an engaged and active member base at the point of need. Service providers across legal, maintenance, insurance, finance, mortgages, tenant screening, and property services can register their interest here: https://landlordassociation.org.uk/become-a-tla-service-partner/