Propertymark has highlighted the necessity of engaging letting agents and landlords in the successful implementation of the Renters Reform Bill, currently under review in the UK Parliament.
A Freedom of Information request by Propertymark revealed that over half of England’s local authorities haven’t held a landlord forum since 2021, underscoring a lack of communication and collaboration essential for addressing the changes proposed in the bill.
Landlord forums serve as a vital platform for dialogue between local authorities and property stakeholders, facilitating the discussion of new legislation, best practices, and issues affecting the private rental sector.
Propertymark’s communication with Jacob Young, the Parliamentary Under Secretary of State, in January, stressed the need for Government support in enabling local authorities to conduct these forums, urging for an increase in resources and encouragement for councils to engage more actively with landlords.
The All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for the Private Rented Sector previously warned that reforms, including significant ones like the abolition of Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions and the introduction of a new Decent Homes Standard, depend heavily on adequate enforcement resources.
The group expressed concerns over the enforcement capacity of local authorities and the potential implications for both tenants and landlords in defending their rights within a possibly overwhelmed courts system.
Tim Thomas, policy and campaigns officer at Propertymark, asserted the importance of these forums, stating: “English local authorities must hold more forums with letting agents and landlords.
“Should The proposals in the Renters Reform Bill will bring substantial change to the private rented sector, but the legislation will only succeed if local authorities are provided with sufficient resources to engage with letting agents and landlords.”
