Propertymark has engaged with members of the House of Lords to propose amendments to the Renters’ Rights Bill following extensive lobbying and communication efforts.
Over 250 letters and emails were sent by Propertymark members, focusing on concerns about the removal of fixed-term tenancies, court capacity, restrictions on advance rent, and regulations around short-term lets.
Other issues include extending the deposit cap for renting with pets and ensuring councils are adequately resourced to regulate the private rental sector.
Propertymark highlighted fears that restrictive regulations could reduce rental home supply, increase rent prices, and make affordable housing harder to find.
Amendments proposed by the Lords seek to allow fixed-term tenancies with mutual agreement and apply repossession grounds to both houses in multiple occupation (HMO) and non-HMO student accommodations.
Concerns about the removal of Section 21 persist, with calls for the courts to be sufficiently equipped to handle a potential increase in cases.
Propertymark also addressed the impact of deposit caps on renting with pets, as 57% of surveyed landlords and agents reported being unable to recover pet-related damages.
An amendment now proposes that tenants pay an additional pet damage deposit equivalent to three weeks’ rent.
Timothy Douglas, head of policy and campaigns at Propertymark, said: “Whilst it is in the UK Government’s hands to amend the Renters’ Rights Bill, it is positive to see that members of the House of Lords are listening to the concerns of letting agents and the wider sector.
“As a professional membership body, we exist to represent our members, and it is great to see so many members engage with our campaigning and contact Peers outlining their knowledge and experience from working in the sector.”
Douglas added: “Change is coming but what’s important is that the legislation is evidence based and fit for purpose.
“It’s good to see that a series of sensible proposed amendments have been brought forward and it’s now vital that the UK Government listen and take action to ensure the Bill strikes a fair balance between not only tenants’ rights but agents and landlords too.”
