News

Isobel Thomson, CEO, National Approved Letting Scheme (NALS):

“For too long the PRS has been the poor relation in housing. Today’s paper marks a welcome change of focus. NALS commends the idea that Government want to make renting fairer and these measures are clearly on the right track. But the PRS is still very disjointed and it’s important we pull together as an industry to improve people’s experience of renting.

“There is a clear acknowledgement now that fees will be banned, NALS has been working closely with Government on the upcoming fee ban, and we look forward to seeing the details of the consultation. What’s important is that when the fee ban comes in, the tenant isn’t disadvantaged, and letting agents are still able to provide a service to the tenant.

“Looking to institutional investors to provide longer tenancies makes sense, but ignores the fact that institutional investment cannot currently meet this demand. In the short term, it is private landlords who will need to be supported and encouraged to provide longer tenancies.

“Fairness for renters doesn’t need to disadvantage the industry. If we are to see a fairer, safer private rented sector then the focus need to be on the rogues and criminals, who avoid responsibility and whose criminal behaviour damages the sector. We want to see more finance for better enforcement and regulation.”