News

The Department for Communities and Local Government has published a draft Tenant Fees Bill which details its approach to banning letting fees paid by tenants. The Bill reflects feedback received to the government’s consultation on a proposed letting fee ban which closed on 2 June 2017.

Isobel Thomson, chief executive, NALS, said:

“The introduction of today’s draft Bill at least gives the sector clarity on the government’s plans and we will consider the detail. We particularly welcome that Government has listened in relation to the level of a cap on security deposits at six weeks’ rent, something that NALS called for in its consultation feedback.

 

“NALS has consistently said that any fee ban needs to be set within a wider context of regulation of lettings and management agents as well as mandatory client money protection (CMP) and it would appear that Government is listening.

 

“With the publication of the draft Bill the work now starts for agents in engaging with their local MPs who will be scrutinising the Bill in Parliament. MPs need to understand the implications of what on the surface appears to be a quick win for tenants but which will ultimately end up costing them more through increased rent and will disadvantage the most vulnerable tenants.  

 

NALS will also continue to work with government to ensure that any legislation works to create a stable sector, a level playing field and ensure fairness for all.”

The government has also published its response to its consultation on the letting fee ban which is available to read here.