While the Renters’ Rights Bill features several reforms for the rental housing sector, property experts have outlined five essential steps for landlords to ensure compliance.
Cal Graham, property expert at We Buy Any Home, said: “We’re about to see the biggest overhaul of the rental sector for some time. While it’s much-needed for rogue landlords that have left their tenants living in disrepair, some property owners feel they’re being unreasonably targeted.
“But for the good landlords out there, they don’t need to panic. Many will already be compliant and they simply need to conduct a few checks to ensure they are prepared in advance.”
Prepare for the end of Section 21 Evictions
Abolishing ‘no fault’ evictions will mean landlords will need to provide a specific reason for ousting a tenant.
Cal said: “You need to familiarise yourself with the new possession grounds. You can still evict a tenant under certain conditions, if you need to move in or sell the property, and in the cases of rent arrears and anti-social behaviour.
“Maintain strong communication with your tenant and keep clear documentation to ensure you can avoid disputes if you need to make some changes. Illegal evictions could result in court action and fines in the thousands, so preparation is really important.”
Get paperwork ready
A new national database will be introduced to ensure transparency and enforcement. Landlords will be required to provide documentation such as Gas Safety Certificates and EPCs.
“Landlords who haven’t done the necessary checks on their properties will have nowhere to hide. Failing to register could lead to legal action and hefty fines, so get your paperwork in order now,” Cal added.
“You will also need to join the new Private Rented Sector Ombudsman and familiarise yourself with the resolution processes.”
Review your tenant screening process
The new law bans discrimination against tenants on benefits or with children.
“Some landlords may have previously had their own measures when choosing a tenant. The new Bill will crack down on tenant discrimination,” Cal said.
“Tenant selection must be fair and transparent, based on financial suitability, affordability, references and credit history. Familiarise yourself with non-discrimination rules and remove any outdated exclusionary policies.”
Conduct property inspections to identify risks
Awaab’s Law will apply to the private rental sector, requiring landlords to fix damp and mould in a set timeframe.
“The Decent Homes Standard will require properties to meet a certain calibre. If they fall away from this, landlords will need to fix issues in a set amount of time,” Cal said.
“Check now for any hazards such as dangerous electrics, defected windows or old facilities and begin fixing now.”
Update tenancy agreements
Landlords will need updated agreements that remove outdated clauses such as pet restrictions, Section 21 and rent increases.
Under the new laws, rent can only be increased once per year and tenants must receive two months’ notice.
Cal explained: “Any changes you make to rent need to align with market rates and be properly documented. Remove any clauses on this from the tenancy agreement and ensure the agreements reflect the changes.”
