News

The Department for Levelling Up, Communities and Housing (DLUHC) has today published its Fairer Private Rented Sector White Paper.

The measures outlined in the White Paper will form part of the Government’s plans for a Renters’ Reform Bill, to be introduced in this parliamentary session.

Reflecting on the reform measures outlined in the White Paper, safeagent’s chief executive, Isobel Thomson, says:

“It’s good to see this first important step from government. We welcome greater support and powers for local authorities in regulating private renting in their areas.

“It’s also positive the government recognises that the majority of landlords do right by their tenants and provide excellent homes. Agents are facilitating that, making sure landlords understand their responsibilities, and tenants understand their rights.

“With the sector already doing much good work, balance will be key in the changes brought forward. Rental properties are in increasingly short supply and we have a growing cost of living crisis.

“It’s important that changes to eviction powers balance security of tenure with some flexibility for landlords. Otherwise, we risk a major exodus of small independent landlords from the market and it should not be forgotten that, if it was not for them, there would be an acute housing shortage.

“The early signs are encouraging that DLUHC is thinking of the needs for all those involved. Of course ensuring tenants are provided with high quality homes, but also giving landlords and agents confidence there will be measures to tackle tenant challenges when they arise.”

“Too often it is the minority of landlords behaving poorly that hit the headlines, so today’s announcement from Eddie Hughes MP that government also wants to “promote the responsible landlords that go above and beyond” is crucial and timely.

“Focus must now be on making sure the policy that follows the White Paper works in practice, for tenants, landlords and agents. That relies on us all working together to help shape and effect meaningful change.

“We welcome the government’s commitment to work with all stakeholders and will be engaging with DLUHC as the reforms are brought forward.”