We have heard a lot from the media and property industry experts about the extensive changes to come from the Renters’ Rights Bill.  Most commonly talked about are the abolishment of Section 21 notices, tenants having the right to request a pet and all Assured Shorthold Tenancies becoming periodic.

However, there is a lot more included in the Bill that means we are about to see the biggest changes to the Private Rented Sector in England in years.

Private Rented Sector (PRS) Database
It is the intention of the Bill, currently in the reporting stage in the House of Lords, to create a PRS Database on which Landlords will be legally obliged to register themselves and their properties for a fee, which the Government says will be good value.  This will help Landlords to understand their legal obligations and demonstrate compliance clearly and provide better information to tenants to help them make informed decisions. 

Private Rented Sector (PRS) Landlord Ombudsman
All current private Landlords in England with assured tenancies will be legally obliged to join the Ombudsman service, and they must join before they can market a property to let.  It will allow tenants to make complaints to the Ombudsman as an alternative to complaining to their council.  Landlords will be obliged to comply with the Ombudsman’s findings.

Failure to comply with the above will incur penalties of between £7,000 and £40,000, enforceable by Local Authorities.

There is so much to consider as a Landlord right now, if you wish to discuss any element of your rental property, discuss your current tenancy or book in a Landlord Review, please do not hesitate to contact the Lettings Team on 01995 603180 lettings@abarnett.co.uk.