‘No deposit’ schemes
You may have seen reports in the media around ‘No deposit’ schemes, with concerns raised that some agents are promoting these options for commission, with tenants not fully understanding the implications of the product. NALS CEO, Isobel Thomson, offers some advice: “Ultimately, tenants need to be aware of their responsibilities. If they are offered a […]
‘safeagent qualified’ launches
safeagent has announced a new designation for lettings and management agents who successfully achieve safeagent’s NCFE accredited courses. The new designation, ‘safeagent qualified’ has been specially created for agents who gain the Foundation Lettings Course [England & Wales], the Level 3 Scotland Foundation Lettings Course, or the Level 3 Award in Letting & Property […]
£65 million support package for vulnerable renters
Government have announced a £65million support fund to cover vulnerable renters’ arrears built during the pandemic. Welcoming the news, Isobel Thomson, safeagent Chief Executive, said: “From the start of the pandemic safeagent has called for no additional debt for those tenants who are most in need. We are delighted that this support is not in the form of […]
5th Anti-Money Laundering Directive
From today, 10 January 2020, all letting agents throughout the UK who manage properties with an individual monthly rental of 10,000 Euros per month (or equivalent) or more must comply with changes in introduced by The Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing (Amendment) Regulations 2019 https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2019/1511/made/data.pdf The main development these Regulations introduce is the expansion of […]
Additional support to save jobs and businesses
The Chancellor has announced further measures to help business and employers through this period of disruption caused by COVID-19. This includes: A new coronavirus Job Retention Scheme to help any employer in the country to cover most of the wages of employees who aren’t working but are being kept on payroll. This will be a grant […]
Adjusted Right to Rent checks will end on 20 June
Following feedback from letting agents and landlords, the temporary COVID-19 adjusted right to rent checks will now end on 20 June 2021 and not 16 May 2021 as originally announced. From 21 June 2021 landlords will revert to face to face and physical document checks as set out in legislation and guidance. This is aligned with […]
Agents key to supporting tenancies
safeagents say there won’t be widespread evictions and arrears are lower than feared Our latest research shows that with the support of letting agents to help maintain tenancies, safeagent firms do not believe there will be widespread evictions as a result of the pandemic. In a survey of safeagent firms across England, 36% of firms […]
Agents urged to check client accounts don’t fall foul of CMP rules
safeagent has written to all of its agents in England urging them to check legal requirements when setting up or operating a client account, following the rise in alternative banking products. As a Government-approved provider of Client Money Protection (CMP), safeagent must ensure that as a scheme it complies with legislation and that its agent […]
Agents warned by NALS as new civil penalty regime comes into force
New legislation which came into force on Thursday 6 April gives local authorities in England tough new powers to crack down on rogue landlords and agents. For the first time, local housing authorities will be able to impose a civil penalty of up to £30,000 for a range of housing offences, including: Failure to comply […]
An incomplete picture: CMP missing from rogue landlord and letting agent database
The database of rogue landlords and property agents was first introduced in April 2018 as a tool for local authorities to record the most serious cases of non-compliance. Since then, the Government has committed to making the database public. A consultation seeking views on this ran from July-October 2019. In the Fairer Private Rented Sector […]
Autumn Budget and Spending Review 2021
Today, Chancellor Rishi Sunak unveiled his spending plans in a Budget he said would “prepare the country for a post-Covid age of optimism”. He noted the Government have been more successful in preventing the long-term economic damage of Covid and said unemployment is expected to peak at 5.2% – meaning over two million fewer people […]
Autumn Statement: safeagent view
Chancellor of the Exchequer Jeremey Hunt MP delivered the Government’s highly-anticipated Autumn Statement today, confirming a raft of tax increases and spending cuts. The announcement had been delayed from the end of October, after markets responded negatively to the previous Government’s approach to stimulating the economy. Among other measures, the announcement included a Capital Gains […]
Ban on bailiff evictions extended
The Communities Secretary, Robert Jenrick, has announced an extension of the ban on bailiff enforcement of evictions for all but the most serious cases until at least 31 March 2021. Read the announcement in full Exemptions will remain in place for the most serious circumstances, including illegal occupation, false statement, anti-social behaviour, domestic abuse, where a property is unoccupied following death […]
Budget 2020 – What does it mean for agents?
While the Budget held little for the Private Rented Sector, there were a series of announcements on the wider housing sector, and a number of measures to support individuals and businesses affected by Coronavirus. Housing A new Affordable Homes Programme of £12bn A £1bn Building Safety Fund to remove unsafe cladding £400m for new homes […]
Budget 2021 – What does it mean for the PRS?
Billed as a Budget to boost the economy, today’s statement from Chancellor Rishi Sunak held few surprises. While measures such as the extension to the furlough scheme and continuing £20 uplift to Universal Credit are a welcome support for renters, there was still very little for the private rented sector. Government’s message that it wants […]
Changes to notice periods
Government have today announced the extension of notice periods, with certain exceptions, including anti-social behaviour and domestic violence. In cases of longer term rent arrears, if a tenant has built up a total of six months of arrears, landlords will now only be required to give four weeks’ notice. The legislation comes into force tomorrow […]
Changes to Right to Rent
Legislative changes to the Right to Rent Scheme come into force on 2 November. The Code of practice on right to rent: civil penalty scheme for landlords and their agents has been updated. The legislative changes enable landlords and letting agents to use a new Home Office online checking service, available from 25 November, to undertake right […]
Changes to Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarm Regulations
Government have confirmed they will make regulations requiring Carbon Monoxide alarms in rooms containing gas appliances (excluding gas cookers) and will also extend the requirement to social housing. Commenting, Isobel Thomson, safeagent Chief Executive said: “We welcome the changes, both in the interests of tenant safety and to ensure a consistent application of the same rules […]
Changes to the Model Tenancy Agreement
Government have announced changes to their Model Tenancy Agreement to make it easier for tenants with pets to find landlords who will accept them. Isobel Thomson, safeagent’s Chief Executive, comments: “It makes sense to encourage landlords to offer greater flexibility for tenants and where possible to allow pets. No one should be excluded because they own a pet. […]
Chartered Institute of Housing Scotland review of agent qualifications – safeagent view
The Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH)’s review of letting agent qualifications in Scotland has now been published. The review, commissioned following the introduction of the Letting Agent Code of Practice in 2018, assessed whether the requirement of mandatory training for letting agents has enhanced professionalism and outcomes in the PRS. The findings from the review […]
Cheering on professional letting agents
This year, 3,000 professional lettings agents across the UK unite for safeagent Awareness Week, 17-21 June 2019. Now in its eighth year, the awareness week celebrates the very best, professional agents in the private rented sector, who work to protect the consumer. safeagent’s focus has always been consumer protection, and it was their seven-year campaign […]
City Of York Plays Host To First Ever NALS Northern Conference
Lettings agents from all over the north gathered in York this week for the first Northern Conference of the National Approved Letting Scheme. Over 70 delegates gathered to share best practice, discuss the big issues affecting the Private Rented Sector (PRS), and how the industry can further protect consumers. Central to the full day’s programme […]
Claims of discrimination against housing benefit tenants – NALS responds
Responding to Shelter and the National Housing Federation’s (NHF) ‘End DSS discrimination’ campaign, Isobel Thomson, NALS CEO, said: “The majority of lettings and management agents are professionals who are skilled at managing housing benefit and universal credit tenancies, dealing with applicants on a case by case basis. Many agents help prospective and existing tenants obtain […]
Client Money Protection will be mandatory from April 2019
Responding to the news, Isobel Thomson, CEO, NALS said: “Today marks an important milestone for our industry. Regulations to make Client Money Protection mandatory for all letting agents will ensure a safer private rented sector for consumers. “For many years now, NALS has campaigned for mandatory CMP, following too many cases of rogues and criminals […]
CMP ruling highlights the importance of agent compliance
A landmark fine for a Camden property agent has demonstrated the risks associated with failing to be a member of a client money protection (CMP) scheme, with a tribunal upholding a £24,000 fine issued by London Trading Standards. The firm was fined after it was found that the company no longer belonged to a CMP […]
Comminique Fair Fees Forum Working Group
1. The Fair Fees Forum met on Friday 13 January 2. Attendees at the Forum included; Belvoir, Chestertons, the Connells Group, Countrywide, Hamptons, Hunters, LSL Property Services, Northwood, Savills, Spicerhaart, Touchstone, Winkworth, Shelter, Association of Residential Letting Agents, National Approved Letting Scheme, Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, National Landlords Association, Residential Landlords Association, Greater London […]
Communique NALS Fair Fees Forum
NALS created the Fair Fees Forum to bring industry, trading standards and consumer groups together to discuss the creation of a fair fees charter for the private rented sector, and look at alternatives to an outright ban. The Forum’s Working Group will now work together to consider fees and ensure agents are still paid for […]
Communique: Fair Fees Forum – Regulation Interest Group
COMMUNIQUE FAIR FEES FORUM – REGULATION INTEREST GROUP A meeting of members of the Fair Fees Forum with an interest in regulation in the PRS was held on Wednesday 14 June 2017 Attendees at the Interest Group included; Chestertons, Countrywide, Hamptons, Spicerhaart, Winkworth, Connells Group, National Approved Letting Scheme, Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, Residential […]
Compulsory Scottish Letting Agent Register – Deadline TODAY
Today is the deadline for agents operating in Scotland to join the Scottish Letting Agent Register. The Letting Agent Code of Practice was introduced on January 31 2018 and all agencies are required to follow the new rules. If you currently carry out letting agency work in Scotland and want to continue doing so, you […]
Coronavirus Act 2020 – Government guidance for landlords, tenants & local authorities
Now the Coronavirus Act 2020 is in force, new Government guidance has been published for landlords, tenants and local authorities. Coronavirus (COVID-19) Guidance for Landlords and Tenants – Read the full guidance here COVID-19 (Coronavirus) and the enforcement of standards in rented properties – Read the full Local Authority guidance here The guidance is very […]
Coronavirus advice and support
In these unprecedented times, safeagent wants to support our firms as much as possible. While no one knows what will happen over the coming weeks and months, it’s important to protect your staff, tenants and landlords by ensuring you have plans in place to deal with business interruption. Contingency planning If you have to close your office […]
Countdown To New Laws Affecting All Landlords And Agents In Wales Rent Smart Wales
The countdown has begun for a new law affecting all landlords and agents in Wales being introduced this autumn.
COVID-19 Home moving guidance updated
In light of the latest lockdown in England, Government have updated their guidance on home moving for both industry and consumers. We know that safeagents are already adhering to Covid-19 safe procedures practices, but it is important to observe this latest guidance. The guidance is extensive and can be read in full here Below are […]
COVID-19: Updates on business rates exemption and house moves
As the Coronavirus outbreak continues, government have today made two key announcements; Business rates exemptions for estate and lettings agencies; and important advice on house moves. Business rates Estate agents, lettings agencies and bingo halls that have closed as a result of Covid-19 measures to restrict the spread of the virus will be now be […]
COVID-19’s impact on the PRS – safeagent gives evidence to Committee
We recently submitted evidence to the Housing, Communities and Local Government Committee into the impact of COVID-19 on homelessness and the PRS. Our submission has a number of recommendations and asks of Government as the PRS enters the next stage of the Coronavirus emergency. These include: Clarify any disinformation about rent payments, re-iterating to tenants that […]
DCLG call for evidence on PRS regulation – NALS comments
NALS has welcomed a call for evidence by the Department for Communities and Local Government on regulation in the Private Rented Sector. Isobel Thomson, chief executive, NALS, said: “NALS welcomed the Government’s announcement earlier this month of its intention to regulate all lettings and management agents. “With 72% of respondents to the consultation on a […]
Decent Homes Standard: safeagent view
The Government’s consultation on introducing a legally binding Decent Homes Standard to the private rented sector in England is now closed. safeagent reviewed the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities’ draft Standard on behalf of members and identified some clear inconsistencies between what is proposed and existing housing regulations. safeagent’s chief executive, Isobel Thomson, […]
Delay new property licensing schemes
safeagent is calling for new property licensing schemes in the Private Rented Sector (PRS) to be placed on hold to free up resources. In the wake of the Coronavirus, safeagent says licensing schemes not already in force should be delayed now and reviewed again in six months’ time. This approach is two-fold; to ensure focus on […]
Delay to end date for temporary Right to Rent adjustments
The planned end date for temporary adjustments has now been delayed from 20 June to 31 August. This means physical checks will now resume from 1 September 2021. Following the UK Government announcement to delay lifting the remaining lockdown restrictions until 19 July 2021, Government have decided to push the date back for the resumption […]
Discount for safeagents – Oxford City Council selective licensing scheme
From 1 September 2022, landlords will be required to have a licence for all privately rented homes in Oxford. The new citywide selective licensing scheme will replace the existing arrangements in Oxford which only require a licence for houses in multiple occupation (HMOs). The Council has now published details of the scheme and the fees […]
DLUHC: returning Secretary of State, new Minister for Housing
Michael Gove MP has been re-appointed as the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities by Rishi Sunak. Mr Gove returns to the post after leaving the department during Liz Truss’s tenure as Prime Minister. He had previously headed the department when the Renters’ Reform white paper was released. During an interview on […]
Emergency rent freeze in Scotland: safeagent view
The First Minister of Scotland, Nicola Sturgeon, has announced a rent freeze on public and private properties as well as a moratorium on evictions. The emergency legislation is being brought forward under the Scottish Government’s 2022-2023 Programme for Government. The measures are aimed at helping tenants through the cost of living crisis, and are expected […]
Enforcement regime on displaying agent fees failing
NALS survey raises concerns over enforcement of letting agent fees ban Two years after it was made law for agents to display their fees, a National Approved Letting Scheme (NALS) survey of local authorities has found that 93 per cent of councils have failed to issue a single financial penalty for non-compliance to letting agents. […]
England Becoming A Nation Of Renters
From the Housing News website: England is fast becoming a nation of renters, according to figures from the latest English Housing Survey. Thanks to an ongoing relative decline in the overall numbers of social housing and an explosion in the numbers of people renting privately, for the first time these two rental sectors are now […]
English Private Landlord Survey
The latest English Private Landlord Surveyshows the private rented sector continues to grow, and its importance in providing housing cannot be underestimated. The PRS is now the second largest tenure in England, and is home to a fifth of all households. The number of households in the sector rose by 25% between 2010-11 and 2017-18, […]
EPCs and COVID-19 Guidance
Advice has been issued for meeting the regulatory requirement to secure a valid Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) on marketing a property during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) advice clarifies that: The legal requirement to obtain an EPC before selling or letting a property remains in place. Where […]
Essential maintenance and repairs – COVID-19 update
Government has now issued guidance regarding maintenance and repairs being carried out in rental properties during the current emergency: Work carried out in people’s homes, for example by tradespeople carrying out repairs and maintenance, can continue, provided that the tradesperson is well and has no symptoms. Again, it will be important to ensure that Public […]
Eviction ban extended for two months
Government have announced that the ban on evictions will be extended by two months Responding to the news, Isobel Thomson, safeagent Chief Executive said: “While the extension may offer reassurance for some tenants, we know our agents are already working with tenants and landlords to ensure that tenancies can be maintained at this challenging time. “There has to […]
Eviction ban extended to May 2021
The Government has announced an extension to the ban on bailiff enforcement of evictions and the requirement for landlords to provide six months’ notice when seeking possession of residential property. These measures will be extended to 31 May 2021, to continue to protect public health and minimise the impact on essential public services. Legislation will […]
Fair Fees Forum 13 July 2017 – Communique
COMMUNIQUE FAIR FEES FORUM – 13 July 2017 A meeting of members of the Fair Fees Forum was held on 13 July 2017. Attendees included; British Property Federation, Chestertons, Connells, Countrywide, DPS, Hunters Property Group, National Approved Letting Scheme, National Landlords Association, Northwood, Ombudsman Services: Property, Shelter, Spicerhaart, The Property Ombudsman, The Property Redress Scheme, […]
Fair Fees Forum 26/4/17 – Communique
COMMUNIQUE FAIR FEES FORUM – WORKING GROUP The Fair Fees Forum met on Wednesday 26 April. Attendees at the Forum included; Belvoir, Chestertons, Countrywide, Hamptons, Hunters, Ryder & Dutton, Savills, Winkworth, Crisis, Shelter, Association of Residential Letting Agents, British Property Federation, National Approved Letting Scheme, Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, National Landlords Association, Residential Landlords […]
Fair Fees Forum Update
A Working Group of the Fair Fees Forum met on Friday 25 November. Attendees at the Working Group included; Belvoir, Chestertons, Northwood, Spicerhaart, Touchstone, Winkworth, British Property Federation (BPF), Shelter, Residential Landlords Association (RLA), Greater London Authority, Ombudsman Services: Property, Property Redress Scheme and Department for Communities and Local Government (in listening mode). Following the […]
Fair Fees Working Group Offers Government A Way Forward On Letting Agent Fee Ban
As industry awaits the Government’s consultation on banning letting agent fees, the Fair Fees Forum* has been working to provide information to help Government’s thinking on the impact of any ban. Although the focus of the ban appears to be on all fees charged to tenants by agents, many questions remain on what this will […]
First guidance issued for easing lockdown
Government guidance issued today, ‘Our plan to rebuild: The UK Government’s COVID-19 recovery strategy’, says that non-essential retail, the sector which lettings and estate agents are currently included in, should be able to open in a phased manner from 1 June 2020, as long these businesses are able to follow the new COVID-19 Secure guidelines. […]
Free Legal Helpline for NALS Agents
NALS teams up with legal firm Moore Blatch to support letting agents The National Approved Letting Scheme’s (NALS) agents has partnered with legal firm Moore Blatch, to offer NALS agents access to a free legal helpline and support. Letting agents and landlords now need to abide by over 145 Acts of Parliament, Health and Safety […]
FREE training course guides agents through principles of deposit disputes
As part of our mission to support letting agents and raise standards across the private rented sector, we’re proud to have partnered with The Dispute Service (The DPS) to offer a FREE training course which guides letting agents through the key principles of disputes. The course is available for all, not just safeagents. Deposit Disputes […]
Get Ready For Right To Rent
Agents and landlords are being reminded by the Home Office that there is less than a month to go before ‘Right to Rent’ goes live across England. The new law means that from 1 February 2016, landlords or agents acting on their behalf will have to carry out quick and simple checks to ensure potential tenants […]
Going greener – getting ahead of policy starts with professional development
Hitting the UK’s net zero carbon objective is an immense task, but one that we must strive for. We all have a responsibility, whether large or small, in helping to get there. That’s especially true for the housing sector. Homes in the UK are responsible for more than a fifth of our country’s carbon emissions. […]
Government announces Client Money Protection will be mandatory
Today we heard the news that Government intends to make Client Money Protection mandatory for all letting agents. Isobel Thomson, NALS CEO, responds: “NALS is delighted that finally this consumer protection measure will be become a requirement for all agents. It has been a long time coming but Government listened to the sector who were […]
Government announces crackdown on rogue landlords
Rogue landlords who rent out substandard properties face being forced out of the sector as new banning orders are brought in and a national database of offenders goes live today (6 April 2018). Landlords convicted of a range of housing, immigration and other criminal offences such as leasing overcrowded properties, fire and gas safety offences […]
Government announces measures to protect renters & landlords affected by Coronavirus
The government has announced a radical package of measures to protect renters and landlords affected by Coronavirus. Emergency legislation to suspend new evictions from social or private rented accommodation while this national emergency is taking place No new possession proceedings through applications to the court to start during the crisis Landlords will also be protected […]
Government announces new protections for renters
The Communities Secretary, Robert Jenrick, has announced extra support to protect rough sleepers and renters from the effects of COVID-19. Renters will continue to be supported during the new national restrictions with an extension of the ban on bailiff enforcement of evictions for all but the most serious cases forat least six weeks –up to the end of 21 February […]
Government Announces New Tenants Charter
New measures will encourage longer fixed-term, family-friendly tenancies and raise standards in the private rented sector, Communities Secretary Eric Pickles announced today (1 October 2013). Tenants will be able to request longer tenancies that provide stability for their family, avoid hidden fees when renting a home and demand a fair deal from their landlords and […]
Government cancels Liverpool’s Citywide Licensing Scheme
Responding to the news that Communities Secretary, Robert Jenrick, has rejected an application to keep Liverpool’s Citywide Licensing Scheme in place for another five years, Isobel Thomson, safeagent CEO said: Since its inception, safeagent has been a co-regulation partner to Liverpool City Council’s Citywide Licensing Scheme. We were pleased to be involved in the initiative which […]
Government consults on consumer redress in housing – NALS responds
Isobel Thomson, NALS CEO, responds to the news that the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) will consult on strengthening consumer redress in the housing market: “NALS welcomes the speed with which the Government has brought forward this consultation. The simplification of the complaints process for consumers is to be welcomed. It makes […]
Government ends LHA rate freeze
Government have revealed plans to end the four-year freeze to Local Housing Allowance (LHA) rates. Will Quince, Minister of Welfare Delivery, said Government would be submitting a Bill to Parliament to legislate that after 1 April this year, rates will be raised in line with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation rate (around 1.5 percent) […]
Government issues practical guidance for agents during the Coronavirus outbreak
Following the Housing Secretary’s announcement that the housing market can reopen in England, Government has now issued guidance with practical advice for both industry and home movers on how to operate safely. Read the guidance in full: ‘Government advice on home moving during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak’ The document explains you can open for business but should […]
Government moves closer to implementation of the tenant fee ban
On Wednesday 2nd May 2018, Government introduced the Tenant Fees Bill to the House of Commons. Housing Secretary Rt. Hon. James Brokenshire MP said: “This government is determined to build a housing market fit for the future. Tenants across the country should not be stung by unexpected costs. That’s why we’re delivering our promise to […]
Government Opens Consultation To Make Client Money Protection Mandatory
The Government has announced an open consultation into making client money protection mandatory for lettings agents. Depending on the responses, mandatory CMP could be added into the Housing and Planning Act 2016. Currently, under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, letting agents are requirement to display in their offices and on their websites their fees; whether […]
Government overhaul housing complaints system
Government have announced plans for new housing complaints service for the entire housing market. The Housing Complaints Resolution Service will ensure both homeowners and tenants know where to go when things go wrong. For first time ever, private landlords will be legally required to join a housing redress scheme – with a fine of up […]
Government plans to end ‘no fault’ evictions
As part of a complete overhaul of the private rented sector, the government has outlined plans to consult on new legislation to abolish Section 21 evictions – so called ‘no-fault’ evictions. Under the proposals: Landlords will have to provide a concrete, evidenced reason already specified in law for bringing tenancies to an end. This is […]
Government Report On Regulation Of Lettings And Management Agents
There is currently no overarching statutory regulation of private sector letting or managing agents in England nor any legal requirement for them to belong to a trade association, although many letting and managing agents submit to voluntary regulation. The Government has said that it does not intend to introduce regulation in the sector pointing instead […]
Government responds to report on protecting rough sleepers and renters
Government have issued their response to the Housing, Communities and Local Government Committee’s report on protecting rough sleepers and renters. Commenting on the report, Isobel Thomson, safeagent Chief Executive, said: “It’s vital that temporary measures put in place to protect homeless people are able to continue. safeagent is pleased to see government’s commitment to ensuring […]
Government responds to Select Committee report into Protecting the homeless & PRS
The Government has published their response to the Select Committee report into Protecting the homeless and the private rented sector. The response gives an outline of what will be in the Renters Reform Bill, including “longer term sector reform and abolishing Section 21” and the commitment to redress which has been left out of previous recent announcements. Commenting, Isobel […]
Government support for landlords and renters during the COVID-19 outbreak
The government has brought forward its package of measures to protect renters affected by coronavirus (COVID-19): From 26 March 2020 landlords will have to give all renters 3 months’ notice if they intend to seek possession (i.e. serve notice that they want to end the tenancy) – this means the landlord can’t apply to start […]
Government timetable for fee ban leaves no time for CMA review
CMA review into fees and charges in the PRS will not take place before fee ban The speed with which Government is working to in order to ban letting agent fees does not leave time for the Competition and Markets Authority (“CMA”) to undertake a review into the market, according to the Fair Fees Forum. […]
Guidance – Client Money Protection
Government have published Guidance on Client Money Protection for letting and management agents. From 1 April 2019, all property agents in England’s private rented sector holding client money must belong to a government-approved Client Money Protection scheme. Agents must also: Hold client money in a client money account with a bank or building society authorised […]
Guidance – Tenant Fees Act 2019
Government have published guidance for tenants, landlords, letting agents and local authority enforcement officers on the Tenant Fees Act 2019. **Download the Tenant Fees Act 2019 guidance for Letting Agents and Landlords** The ban is being introduced in two stages, depending on when a tenancy was entered into. From 1 June 2019, if you enter […]
Guidance for Electrical Safety Standards Regulations
From today (1 June 2020), the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020 are now in force. The Regulations apply to new tenancies from 1 July 2020 and existing tenancies from 1 April 2021. To accompany the Regulations coming into force, Government have produced specific guidance on the Regulations for landlords, […]
Guidance on Fitness for Human Habitation Act
Government have issued Guidance to help tenants, landlords and local authorities understand the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018, which comes into force on 20 March 2019. The guidance explains the minimum standards required to let domestic property under the Act. It is designed to ensure that all rented accommodation is fit for human […]
Guidance on the possession action process
Ahead of the resumption of possession cases from September 21st, Government have published guidance on the possession action process. Welcoming the guidance, Isobel Thomson, Chief Executive, safeagent, said: “It’s positive to see this guidance, which actively encourages both tenants and landlords to try and reach agreement to avoid getting to the eviction stage. Eviction is always the […]
Have your say on property listings info
National Trading Standards Estate and Letting Agency Team (NTSELAT) is working with input from property portals and industry bodies to explore how they can make it easier for agents to provide more material information in property listings. This will provide greater clarity and consistency for agents across the industry. Estate and letting agents have a legal […]
HCLG Committee report on the PRS – NALS responds
In a report on the private rented sector out today, the Housing, Communities and Local Government Committee says local authorities need greater powers to break the business models of criminal landlords who exploit vulnerable tenants. The report recommends: Greater legal protections for tenants from retaliatory eviction, rent increases and harassment. For example, the Deregulation Act […]
Help the sector understand the benefits of smart meters
As energy costs continue to rise, agents and their landlords need to understand more about the benefits of smart meters to support tenants and encourage their installation, says safeagent. Our call comes ahead of the first Smart Meter Awareness Week (18-22 October), which aims to help landlords, letting agents and tenants understand the benefits of […]
Hounslow Council U-turns on landlord licensing scheme
Hounslow Council has u-turned on plans for a licensing scheme for landlords following representations by safeagent and the Residential Landlords Association. On 9th July the council’s cabinet agreed to proceed with plans for an additional licensing scheme for landlords. The RLA threatened the Council with judicial review on the basis that the consultation it ran […]
Housing market can reopen
The Housing Secretary has announced the housing market can reopen, re-starting the housing market in line with social distancing advice. Today there will be a change to the regulations on moving home, removing the previous stipulation that homes moves can only happen where reasonably necessary. Anyone in England can now move home if they follow […]
Immigration Act 2014 Comes Into Effect Today In West Midlands
As of today, the Immigration Act 2014 ‘Right to Rent’ legislation will come into force in the West Midlands regions of Birmingham, Dudley, Sandwell, Walsall and Wolverhampton. This means anyone seeking to rent a property – landlord or agent – will need to check that any tenants they take on have a legal right to […]
Important info: Revised rental documents
Following the introduction of the Tenant Fee Act in England (1 June 2019), Government has issued revised versions of its series of ‘How to’ guides for the Private Rented Sector. It has also updated Form 6A for serving a Section 21 Notice. It is important that you now use these new versions: · How to […]
Important information – ‘How to Rent’ guide – Make sure you are issuing the correct version
On 26 June 2018, the Ministry for Housing Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) issued a new series of online rental guides. Within the series, there were two How to Rent tenant guides – ‘How to Rent’ and ‘How to Rent a Safe Home’. The covers to both guides (see below) were almost identical and concerns […]
IMPORTANT: Debt Respite ‘Breathing Space’ scheme
From today, Tuesday 4th May 2021, the Debt Respite Scheme, or ‘Breathing Space’ scheme comes into force. Announced last year, the Debt Respite Scheme (Breathing Space) gives people in problem debt the right to legal protections from their creditors for up to 60 days. Importantly, this scheme will apply to tenants in debt to landlords […]
Industry is waiting, it’s time for Government to act
Government must act now end the confusion and uncertainty in the private rented sector and ensure it functions properly for all, says the National Approved Letting Scheme. As the Budget approaches, and industry continues to wait for the Government’s consultation on fees, NALS is asking Government to look again at key areas for the sector: […]
Is The Industry Sleepwalking Into Ban On Letting Agent Fees
Isobel Thomson, Chief Executive, NALS “Efforts to explain to the media and Government the reasons why upfront letting agent fees are fair are hampered by sensationalist headlines based on often spurious research. “It is fair for letting agents to charge reasonable fees to tenants for the work they do at the start of a tenancy. But we believe […]
It Is Time For A Fair Solution On Upfront Tenant Fees Says NALS
The National Approved Letting Scheme (NALS) is launching its Fair Fees Forum, which will bring industry, trading standards and consumer groups together to discuss the creation of a fair fees charter for the private rented sector. The Fair Fees Forum will explore whether a cap on upfront tenant fees is practical and enforceable, while also […]
Landlord confidence key to possession reforms
Section 21 repossessions should be retained in the private rented sector unless and until a new system is in place that provides landlords with the same level of confidence about repossessing properties in legitimate circumstances. Groups representing landlords and letting agents (including safeagent), forming a ‘Fair Possessions Coalition’ have united in warning that plans to […]
Latest NALS Effective Enforcement Toolkit stamps out rogues
To help local authorities tackle rogue letting agents, NALS has published the latest version of its Effective Enforcement Toolkit. Originally published in 2016, the Toolkit was created as a unique way to assist local authority enforcement officers in tackling lettings and management firms who fail to comply with the law, particularly around the requirement to […]
Latest safeagent Enforcement Toolkit tackles rogue agents
Effective enforcement is crucial if we are to stamp out rogue agents in the Private Rented Sector (PRS) and ensure consumers are protected, says safeagent as it publishes the third edition of its Effective Enforcement Toolkit. With Local Authorities under continued pressure to effectively police the PRS, the Toolkit gives them the tools to enforce […]
Latest updates for the PRS
This week, we have had confirmation that estate and lettings agency offices can stay open during national restrictions in England. Government have also made further announcements on evictions, and the extension of the furlough scheme. Please see the latest updates below: Evictions Evictions will not be enforced whilst national restrictions are in place, except for […]
Learning increases as agents deal with lockdown
safeagent has seen rising numbers of agents undertaking professional development, as they deal with the lockdown. There has been a particular interest from Scottish agents, specifically in our Foundation Lettings Course (Scotland), the only fully online training which meets the qualification requirement for Scottish agents wishing to apply to the Register. Now, as part of our […]
Let’s learn from the pandemic as we weather cost of living storm
As we look beyond the pandemic, we should take time to reflect on what we did well as a sector to deal with the challenges of Covid-19. There’s lots to learn from as we face the cost of living crisis and a raft of new reforms for the private rented sector. At safeagent, we see […]
Letting agency fee ban: compensate for loss with custodial deposit protection scheme, industry leaders urge
Letting agents can compensate for potential losses resulting from a future ban on letting agent fees paid by tenants by switching to custodial tenancy deposit protection from insured protection, industry leaders have today urged. Since deposit protection became mandatory, landlords have been able to choose between insured schemes, which involve a fee, and custodial schemes […]
Letting Agent Fee Ban Consultation launched in Wales
The Welsh Government has launched its consultation on banning fees to tenants. The consultation seeks views on the nature and level of fees being charged to tenants to determine which fees, if any, are justifiably being charged. Isobel Thomson, NALS Chief Executive, said: “We will engage with the Welsh Government to ensure that they understand the […]
Lettings Agents Being Encouraged To Sign Up For West Of England Rental Standard
Landlords and lettings agents in Bristol are being encouraged to apply for accreditation under the new West of England Rental Standard. The voluntary scheme sets out a minimum standard that landlords and letting or management agents in the private rented sector should reach. It creates a ‘kite mark’ so that tenants can be assured that […]
Levelling Up White Paper – what does it mean for the PRS?
Today, the Levelling Up Secretary Michael Gove unveils the Government’s flagship Levelling Up White Paper. This contains 12 ‘Missions’ which will be given legal status in the ‘Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill’. The Mission concerning the PRS says: The government will announce a plan that for the first time ever, all homes in the Private […]
London licensing scheme regime failing consumers
With over 130,000 unlicensed rental properties in London, safeagent calls for a rethink of licensing in the private rented sector to better protect tenants New research for safeagent conducted by London Property Licensing has found over 130,000 unlicensed properties in London which should be licensed under either selective, additional or mandatory HMO licensing schemes. The […]
London’s criminal landlords and agents database – NALS responds
The Mayor of London has announced criminal landlords and letting agents who exploit their tenants will be ‘named and shamed’ on a new online database. Isobel Thomson, NALS CEO, responds to the plans: NALS fully supports any measures that improve the private rented sector. The criminal landlords and agents database will place a spotlight on […]
London’s licensing lottery could drive landlords from PRS, says NALS
A ‘lottery’ of landlord licensing fees across London could force more landlords out of the private rented sector (PRS) according to NALS licensing fees research The findings from the research show that licensing fees can be vastly different depending on locations, with boroughs in the capital charging significantly different fees. NALS is concerned that landlords […]
Major new review of the PRS
The Evolving Private Rented Sector: its contribution and potential, is a major a new review of the private rented sector by Dr Julie Rugg and David Rhodes at the University of York. The detailed, independent analysis looks at who lives in private rented housing, how their needs are being met, and the impact of policy […]
Mandatory CMP moves closer as Govt publish guidance for schemes
Government have today published guidelines for organisations wishing to apply to become Government approved Client Money Protection (CMP) schemes. Once approved, the chosen schemes will administer CMP for letting agents, to protect the client money they hold. Isobel Thomson, NALS CEO, said: “We welcome Government issuing guidance for prospective Client Money Protection Scheme operators which […]
Mandatory electrical safety checks
The Government has clarified building regulations fire safety guidance, following recommendations made by Dame Judith Hackitt. The Secretary of State for Communities, Rt Hon James Brokenshire MP, has also said he will go further by conducting a full-scale review of the guidelines, commencing in the autumn. Alongside this, Government has today announced additional measures to […]
Mandatory HMO licensing changes – are you ready?
The legal requirements surrounding mandatory HMO licensing are changing on 1 October 2018. An estimated 160,000 extra properties will need licensing across England, with new rules on minimum bedroom sizes and a new licence condition for waste disposal. Any landlord who hasn’t applied for a new licence by 1 October 2018 will be in breach […]
Mandatory HMO licensing changes coming into effect from 1 June – are you prepared?
The legal requirements surrounding mandatory HMO licensing are changing on 1 October 2018. An estimated 160,000 extra properties will need licensing across England, with new rules on minimum bedroom sizes and a new licence condition for waste disposal. Following on from our recent seminars in London we are now holding one in Bristol. To help […]
Mandatory Membership Of A Redress Scheme A Step Closer For All Lettings And Management Agents
The Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG) has approved three redress schemes Ombudsman Services: Property, The Property Ombudsman Scheme (TPO) and The Property Redress Scheme to provide a free and independent redress service to landlords and tenants as part of new legislative changes affecting letting agents. Today’s announcement by Housing Minister Kris Hopkins follows […]
Mental Health Awareness Week: our training proceeds donation to MIND
In support of Mental Health Awareness Week, safeagent is donating all proceeds from subscriptions to its mental health awareness training course to mental health charity, MIND. Mental Health Awareness Week (9 – 15 May 22) is an annual campaign – this year’s theme focuses on raising awareness of how mental health can be affected by […]
MHCLG update: What do Tier 4 restrictions mean for the PRS?
The Ministry of Housing Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) have given safeagent clarification on what the introduction of Tier 4 means for tenants, agents and landlords. All measures currently in place – longer notice periods of six months, court rules and arrangements and restrictions on bailiff enforcement will continue to apply across all local tiers, […]
Missed Opportunity As Mandatory Client Money Protection Reform Withdrawn From Housing Bill
A recent amendment aimed at introducing mandatory inclusion under a Client Money Protection (CMP)Scheme for all lettings and management agents has been withdrawn from the Housing and Planning Bill currently going through Parliament. The Minister Brandon Lewis said in reference to the amendment in a recently published briefing report issued during the Christmas break: ” […]
NALS and DWP unite on Universal Credit
NALS is proud to be working with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) helping to provide landlords with information about Universal Credit. Universal Credit is having a big impact on the private rented sector, and NALS wants to support tenants, and ensure that no-one in receipt of the new benefit is excluded from the […]
NALS And NAPIT Join Forces To Launch Free Electrical Safety Course For Lettings Agents
NALS has collaborated with the National Association of Professional Inspectors and Testers (NAPIT) to create new free online electrical safety course for letting agents. NALS has collaborated with the National Association of Professional Inspectors and Testers (NAPIT) to create new free online electrical safety course for letting agents. The Electrical Installation Safety course was created […]
NALS Announces Coregulation Partnership With Liverpool Licensing Scheme For Landlords
NALS is proud to have been chosen as one of three organisation to co-partner with Liverpool council to help raise standards in the city’s private rented sector. This co-partnership agreement also allows NALS licensed firms to offer their landlords a 50% discount off the licence fee.
NALS Autumn Statement Response We don’t believe Banning Letting Agent Fees is the Answer
NALS Autumn Statement Response Isobel Thomson, CEO, National Approved Letting Scheme (NALS) “Given the rhetoric around excessive letting agent fees, today’s announcement is perhaps of little surprise. We don’t believe banning fees is the answer. The majority of letting agents fees are fair and reasonable and charged for the service they provide. “Unfortunately, by banning, […]
NALS becomes Government approved Client Money Protection Scheme provider
We are delighted to announce that NALS has received Government approval as a recognised Client Money Protection (CMP) Scheme operator. NALS has already been providing a Client Money Protection Scheme for its agents for over fifteen years. It has always been a key cornerstone of being NALS accredited to have CMP as a consumer protection […]
NALS becomes safeagent
Established accreditation scheme rebrands as safeagent The National Approved Letting Scheme (NALS) has today rebranded as safeagent. NALS has helped coordinate the safeagent campaign since 2011, focussed on achieving mandatory Client Money Protection (CMP) for all lettings and management agents. The campaign – for the benefit of the consumer – was widely supported by agents […]
NALS Calls For CMA Report Into Fees
A recent report by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) into legal services concluded that competition in legal services for individual consumers and small businesses is not working well. In particular, there is not enough transparency on price, quality and service to help those who need legal support choose the best option. https://www.gov.uk/government/news/cma-demands-greater-transparency-from-legal-service-providers NALS CEO, […]
NALS Calls On Agents To Sign Up To The London Rental Standard
NALS announces it has gained recognition as an approved accreditation provider for firms seeking to gain the London Rental Standard (LRS) badge and will be encouraging its firms to sign up. The London Rental Standard (LRS) is a voluntary set of minimum standards that the Mayor expects from lettings and management agents as well as […]
NALS CEO Talks CMP
“There’s been a lot of discussion in the trade media over the past couple of weeks about Client Money Protection for letting and management agents, as the newly approved CMP schemes are announced and the deadline for mandatory CMP approaches on 1 April. “NALS, a not for profit organisation, is proud to be one of […]
NALS Conference 2015 Time To Book Your Tickets
The NALS Annual Conference is now in its 5th year and, each year grows in stature and importance, attracting top quality speakers and industry commentators.
NALS contributes to report on improving PRS for people in poverty
NALS is proud to have been part of the project advisory group for the Joseph Rowntree Foundation’s (JRF) recent report ‘Using incentives to improve the private rented sector for people in poverty’, led by Prof. Mike Oxley and Anna Clarke at Cambridge Centre for Housing and Planning Research. The report sets out three possible policy options […]
NALS gets behind Gas Safety Week
18 – 24 September is Gas Safety Week and the NALS community is supporting the initiative once again. Gas Safety Week is about encouraging people to take care of their gas appliances. Thousands of people every year are diagnosed with carbon monoxide poisoning and over 43 per cent of people in the UK fail to […]
NALS Inputs To Make Rent Smart Wales More Equitable For Agents
Following consultation with NALS about the Rent Smart Wales fee structure for Letting and Management Agents, we are pleased to announce that revisions have been made to make the scheme more equitable. A new fee structure comes into affect from 25th April 2016. The new fee structure is now: > Graduated based on the size […]
NALS Message To Agents Following Government Plan To Ban Fees
Following the news that Government will move to ban letting agent fees, the National Approved Letting Scheme (NALS) Chief Executive, Isobel Thomson this message for NALS’ members: Today’s likely announcement in the Autumn Statement of an upfront fees ban has taken some in the industry by surprise. On the face of it, it is an […]
NALS on political parties’ manifesto plans for the private rented sector
Labour, the Liberal Democrats and the Conservatives have now all issued their manifestos ahead of the General Election. Commenting on all three political parties’ manifesto plans for the private rented sector, Isobel Thomson, Chief Executive of NALS, said: “NALS welcomes all parties’ focus on greater protections and security for tenants. However, these must not come […]
NALS provides evidence to draft Tenant Fees Bill Inquiry
The Communities and Local Government Committee conducts pre-legislative scrutiny of the Government’s proposals to ban letting fees imposed by landlords and letting agents on tenants. The draft Tenant Fees Bill (PDF 716 KB) was published on 1 November and aims to deliver ‘a fairer, more competitive, and more affordable lettings market where tenants have greater clarity […]
NALS reassures on CMP
On 1 April 2019 Client Money Protection (CMP) will become mandatory for all letting agents. Government are currently are considering applications from operators who wish to become Client Money Protection Schemes. Once approved, the chosen schemes will administer CMP for letting agents, to protect the client money they hold. As a long-standing client money protection […]
NALS Renews Support For The London Rental Standard
As a new round of promotion for the LRS gets underway, NALS renews its support for this initiative which seeks to raise standards in the capital’s private rented sector.
NALS responds to Client Money Protection Review
Commenting on the publication of the Client Money Protection Review, Isobel Thomson, CEO, NALS, said: “There is now clear support across the private-rented sector for mandatory Client Money Protection and we fully endorse the Review’s findings that a coherent implementation is now necessary. “The Review concludes that agents will not have to source their CMP […]
NALS responds to consultation into banning letting agent fees
Today Government launched its long awaited consultation into banning letting agent fees. It proposes to introduce legislation which will mean that “no agent will be able to charge tenants any fees, premiums or charges that meet the general definition of facilitating the granting, renewal or continuance of a tenancy.” Commenting on the launch of the consultation, […]
NALS responds to mandatory CMP consultation launch
The government is seeking views on how to introduce mandatory membership of client money protection (CMP) schemes for lettings and management agents in England. Responding to the announcement, Isobel Thomson, NALS chief executive, said: “NALS has long campaigned for a fair PRS which works to the benefit of tenants, landlords and agents. It is our […]
NALS responds to new measures to protect consumers in the PRS
The Government has today issued its consultation response into protecting consumers in the letting and managing agent market. It has also published its response to the consultation on the introduction of mandatory Client Money Protection schemes for letting agents. The responses include a number of new measures designed to protect consumers in the private rented […]
NALS responds to publication of draft Tenant Fee Bill
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 […]
NALS Responds To Renters Rights Bill
Commenting on the amendment to the Renters’ Rights Bill at the Committee stage which appears to recognise the legitimate charging of reasonable fees by letting agents setting up tenancies, Isobel Thomson, CEO, NALS, said: “This amendment is a welcome one. NALS has long campaigned to raise the issue of upfront fees and what is fair for both tenants […]
NALS responds to rogue landlords inquiry
The Communities and Local Government Select Committee has launched an inquiry into whether current powers held by local authorities allow them to adequately crack down on rogue landlords. Isobel Thomson, chief executive, NALS said: “We welcome this announcement from the Select Committee. NALS has called for greater enforcement across the PRS for some time and […]
NALS responds to Secretary of State for Wales comment
The Secretary of State for Wales has called for greater protections for tenants and action against rogue landlords and letting agents. Responding to this, Isobel Thomson, chief executive, NALS said: “NALS notes the Secretary of State for Wales’ call for the Welsh Government to take measures to protect tenants in Wales from unjust fees and […]
NALS responds to the Queen’s Speech
In today’s Queen’s Speech, there was confirmation that Government would legislate to ban tenants letting fees, in order ‘to improve transparency, affordability and competition in the private rental market.’ However, there was also the announcement of new measures to enforce the ban with provision for tenants to be able to recover unlawfully charged fees. The […]
NALS responds to Westminster Hall fee ban debate
Today at Westminster Hall, MPs debated a proposed ban on letting agent fees charged to tenants. The debate was called by Kevin Hollinrake MP and was responded to by Minister of State for Housing and Planning, Alok Sharma MP. Commenting on the Westminster Hall debate on banning letting agent fees NALS CEO, Isobel Thomson said: […]
NALS response to letting agent fee ban consultation
The Department for Communities and Local Government’s (DCLG) consultation into the banning of letting agent fees charged to tenants closes today. NALS welcomes the Government’s commitment to a better Private Rented Sector offering safety and security for tenants. However, NALS does not support a ban on letting agent fees to tenants, because it believes that […]
NALS supports Gas Safety Week
NALS is supporting Gas Safety Week (17th-23rd September 2018), raising awareness of the importance of gas safety. The eighth annual Gas Safety Week sees organisations from across the UK working together to raise awareness of the dangers of poorly maintained gas appliances, which can cause gas leaks, fires, explosions and carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. This […]
NALS Supports Gas Safety Week 2015 All This Week
It’s Gas Safety Week 2015: 14th – 20th September! Gas Safety Week is an annual safety week to raise awareness of gas safety and the importance of taking care of your gas appliances. It is co-ordinated by Gas Safe Register with support from the gas industry including retailers, manufacturers, consumer bodies and the public. Once again, the […]
NALS supports London Trading Standards crackdown on rogue letting agents
As part of London Trading Standards Week, representatives from 15 departments will visit Letting and Property Management agents today in a bid to identify rogue agents and improve the rental experience for consumers. Letting agents must display their fees and other relevant information online and in their branches so prospective tenants and landlords know exactly […]
NALS Supports Manchester Renting Pledge
NALS is pleased to support Manchester City Council in a new initiative to raise standards in the Private Rented Sector. MCC have taken a sensible approach by creating the Manchester Renting Pledge that tenants, landlords, and agents can voluntarily sign up to. The Pledge sets out some basic standards that both tenants and landlords agree […]
NALS Supports Move For Tenants To Improve Their Credit Score
Unique rental payment system helps private rented sector tenants improve their credit score The National Approved Letting Scheme (NALS) is backing The Rental Exchange, a unique scheme that allows tenants to strengthen their credit history, simply by paying their rent. Launched by global information services company Experian, The Rental Exchange records tenants’ rental payments in […]
NALS Supports The London Rental Standard As It Continues To Gain Traction In The Capital
More than 115,000 rented homes across the city are now badged under the Mayor’s London Rental Standard, the capital’s first city-wide badge of accreditation to improve the experience of landlords and tenants. Less than a year since its launch last May, the London Rental Standard is going from strength to strength with 307 letting agent […]
NALS Training hits milestone with 500th Foundation Lettings Course learner
NALS is celebrating the 500th candidate to complete its Foundation Lettings Course Moira Devlin of Lowther Homes, in Scotland, was the 500th learner, completing the Foundation Lettings Course (Scotland). NALS offers three versions of the Foundations Lettings Course, for England, Scotland and Wales, depending on where agents operate. Each one offers flexible learning for candidates, […]
NALS’ reaction to Government’s proposal on regulation of letting agents
NALS has welcomed proposals announced by Sajid Javid MP, Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, signalling the Government’s intention to introduce regulation in to the Private Rented Sector. Among a raft of measures announced in his speech at the Conservative Party Conference, Mr Javid said the Government would require all letting agents to […]
NAO Report on the regulation of private renting
Welcoming the National Audit Office’s (NAO) Report on the regulation of private renting, which safeagent contributed to, Isobel Thomson, Chief Executive, said: “Over the last few years, we have seen many well intentioned pieces of legislation introduced to improve the PRS. These should have made a real difference, but as the NAO’s Report evidences, their application […]
National Approved Letting Scheme NALS Responds To The Housing White Paper
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 […]
New CMA guidance on tenants receiving benefits
The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has issued updated guidance to say there should be no blanket bans on tenants in receipt of housing benefit. In March 2019 the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government announced plans to look at letting adverts which potentially discriminate against would-be tenants on housing benefit and made clear […]
New consultation on extending Decent Homes Standard to PRS
The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities has launched a consultation on plans to extend the Decent Homes Standard to the private rented sector. This follows the Government’s A fairer private rented sector white paper, which committed to introducing legally binding standards in privately rented homes, following the Decent Homes Standard’s introduction across social […]
New dispute training course for letting agents created by The DPS and NALS
A new free training course which guides letting agents through the key principles of disputes, has been released by The Deposit Protection Service (The DPS) and NALS. Deposit Disputes is an online training module written by The DPS’ Head of Adjudication and is available in The DPS Training Hub section of NALS Virtual Learning Environment, […]
New Energy Efficiency Regulations In Force From Today
From 1 April 2016, new regulations allow private tenants to request their landlord’s consent to carry out certain energy efficiency improvements, such as installing insulation and improved heating controls. The new rules, introduced under the Energy Efficiency (Private Rented Sector)(England and Wales) Regulations 2015, are part of a series of measures aimed at improving energy […]
New guidance – mandatory HMO licensing
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) have published new guidance to help local authorities implement changes to mandatory HMO licensing. Following legislation introduced last month, from 1 October 2018 any landlord who lets a property to 5 or more people – from 2 or more separate households – must be licensed by […]
New guidance – smoke and carbon monoxide alarm regulations
The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities has published new guidance on the updated smoke and carbon monoxide alarm regulations coming into force on 1 October 2022. safeagent encourages all agents and landlords to read the guidance and ensure properties are compliant in time for the changes. As of 1 October 2022, the Smoke […]
New Help for Households Campaign set up to help people with cost of living crisis
safeagent encourages all agents to share information with their landlords and tenants about the new Government campaign to help families struggling with rising costs over the summer holidays. The campaign includes deals from various businesses which are designed to reduce costs at the checkout, help provide entertainment and ensure access to necessary services for families […]
New HMO rules now in force
Changes to landlord licensing scheme rules are now in force. Effective 1 October 2018, mandatory HMO licensing has been extended to most Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) that are occupied by five or more people who are not all related, and where there is some sharing of facilities. The scheme was previously restricted to properties […]
New Household Support Fund
Vulnerable households across the country will be able to access a new £500m Household Support Fund to help them with essentials over the coming months as the country continues its recovery from the pandemic. Isobel Thomson, safeagent’s Chief Executive: “The Household Support Fund is a welcome boost for struggling households. We hope this will be […]
New How To Rent Checklist
The Government has launched a new “How to Rent” checklist for tenants – an easy to read guide to rights and responsibilities when renting. Find out more by visiting the GOV.UK website.
New Independent Report Gives A 360 Degree Overview Of The Private Rented Sector
An independent report on the private rented sector (PRS) was released yesterday by Kate Faulkner of Designs On Property, which looks at the PRS from all perspectives. Supported by leading members of the industry including NALS, the analysis looks at the impact of proposed housing polices on the PRS, the wider roles and responsibilities of […]
New NALS online training helps Scottish agents get compliant
Newly approved course allows agents to meet registration training requirement set by Scottish Government. NALS is offering online training for Scottish agents to become compliant with new rules which came into force on 31 January 2018. It is now compulsory for lettings and property management agents operating in Scotland to belong to a new register […]
New NALS training course launched
A ground-breaking new training course from the National Approved Letting Scheme (NALS) will allow candidates to become certified without leaving the office. The NALS Foundation Lettings Course (England) – which has been recognised as an accredited award from awarding organisation NCFE* – allows agents to take their tests online rather than having to attend a […]
New NALS training helps agents stay ahead of the game
The National Approved Letting Scheme (NALS) has released a new specialist training course for letting agents; the NALS Level 3 Award in Letting and Property Management (England). Earlier this year, Government announced that to further professionalise the private rented sector (PRS), letting and managing agents in England will be required to obtain a nationally recognised […]
NEW online rental guides from Government
As part of government’s plans to ensure everyone has a decent, safe place to live, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) has published new online rental guides. MHCLG’s ‘How to’ guides include checklists for new and existing tenants, landlords and letting agents to ensure they are complying with their legal responsibilities. The […]
New rules to better protect renters’ money
All private rented property agents will have to sign up to a government-backed client money protection scheme protecting renters’ and landlords’ money under new laws unveiled today. Housing Minister Heather Wheeler MP has brought forward new legislation to strengthen protections for money held by property agents. Under the new regulations taking effect from 1 April, […]
Note on changes to guidance for landlords & agents: Tenants Fees Act 2019
Changes were issued to the Tenant Fees Act 2019 guidance by MHCLG on the last day of the previous Government’s tenure in July 2019. Henriques Griffiths solicitors have prepared a helpful note on the changes, explaining they do not materially alter the original guidance issued in April 2019, but simply expand on some points, or […]
Notice periods return to pre-COVID lengths from 1 October
The emergency measures introduced as part of the Coronavirus Act 2020 requiring landlords to provide longer notice periods when seeking possession of residential property will come to an end on 30 September 2021. Notice periods will return to their pre-COVID lengths from 1 October 2021. The Ministry for Housing Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) said […]
Notice periods to reduce from 1 June
Government have announced changes to eviction notice periods and the lifting of the ban on bailiff evictions from 1 June. Key points: As part of a phased approach, notice periods – previously extended to six months as an emergency measure during the pandemic – will be set at four months from 1 June. This will […]
OS:P will withdraw from property redress – NALS response
Ombudsman Services has announced plans to withdraw from complaints handling in the property sector as it launches a major dialogue to create a single housing ombudsman. OS will begin a managed withdrawal from the current schemes it operates for surveyors, managing agents, estate agents and letting agents by 6 August 2018. Isobel Thomson, CEO, NALS, […]
Our man in Cambodia
safeagent Board Director John Midgley has been in Cambodia, volunteering his time with Habitat for Humanity GB and safeagent accredited firm Touchstone. John led the team of volunteers helping to help build a home for a young family, Lok Heanh and Soeum Poeun and their two young children. Soeum Poeun is a sole provider for […]
Our work with Trading Standards stops criminals in their tracks
NALS’ mission is to make the Private Rented Sector (PRS) a better, safer place for all. One of the key ways we do this is through our work with Trading Standards teams across the country. You may have seen two recent court cases concerning agents operating in Islington and Southwarkin London. In both cases, we […]
Pause routine electrical inspections and new property licensing schemes
To help control the spread of coronavirus, safeagent, the UK’s leading not-for-profit accreditation scheme for lettings and management agents, is calling for a pause in the implementation of new electrical safety regulations, and new property licensing schemes. Although visiting rented properties to prepare licence applications and undertake routine electrical testing is permitted under the coronavirus […]
Political parties reveal PRS plans
As the General Election approaches, all three parties have now revealed their manifestos. safeagent’s Isobel Thomson responds to their plans for the Private Rented Sector. “Any party coming in needs to take stock of the considerable amount of legislation which has already been introduced over the last few years. The legislation is there, now it’s […]
Problems with a letting agent in London? – “report it to help sort it”
London Trading Standards Week 10 – 14 September 2018 Trading Standards services in London are working together to help tackle problems with letting agents who aren’t complying with the law and are leading nationally on this issue. In June this year, a website survey of letting agents in the capital revealed an extremely high level […]
Professional development – safeagent provides the right resources
At safeagent, our short courses and qualifications offer something for everyone whether you are new to the sector or experienced, whether you are an employer or an employee. We want to help agents provide the highest levels of service and expertise to landlords and tenants. To achieve that, we don’t believe professional development should require […]
Property Licence Checker launches in London
The Mayor of London has today launched his Property Licence Checker, which will help private renters in London to establish whether their landlord is required to hold a licence to let our their property. Responding to the news, safeagent’s Chief Executive, Isobel Thomson, said: “A simple mechanism for landlords, agents and tenants to understand and negotiate […]
Property Ombudsmans Annual Report
NALS supports the call by Property Ombudsman Christopher Hamer in his newly released Annual Report to raise awareness among consumers of protection afforded by using an agent who is part of a CMP scheme and who meets defined criteria set down by industry organisations. NALS supports SAFEagent www.safeagents.co.uk as a vehicle for raising consumer awareness […]
Property Redress Scheme offers NALS members discounted membership
The Property Redress Scheme (PRS) is offering discounted membership to NALS firms. After Ombudsman Services: Property announced its decision to pull out of providing redress to the property industry, the PRS stepped in to help NALS firms continue to meet their legal requirements by belonging to a government-approved consumer redress scheme. Effective from today, NALS […]
Queen’s Speech: Plans unveiled for the PRS
In the Queen’s Speech, Government revealed plans for what it called “A revolutionary new deal for renters to restore fairness, honesty and transparency to the heart of the housing market” with the Renter’s Reform Bill. Key measures announced for the Private Rented Sector include: A new lifetime deposit scheme, which will see a deposit move […]
Regulation of private renting review – what can it tell us about upcoming PRS reform?
Ahead of the upcoming Renters’ Reform Bill, the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has called for more cohesive policymaking and consistency in tenant protections in the private rented sector. Its Regulation of Private Renting report, published yesterday, urges more government support for local authorities with enforcing of PRS regulation, and for educating tenants on their rights. […]
Rent Smart Wales secures first conviction
Rent Smart Wales (RSW), the Welsh Government scheme, designed to drive up standards in the private rented sector, have made their first successful prosecution. The RSW scheme requires private landlords to register and managing landlords and agents to become licensed with the scheme. Since November 23, 2016, landlords and agents who fail to comply with […]
Renters’ (Reform) Bill published – safeagent reaction
The long-awaited Renters’ (Reform) Bill is to be introduced to Parliament today, providing the legislative detail intended to deliver the Government’s 2019 manifesto commitment to abolish section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions. The Bill, intended to provide new protections for tenants and clamp down on rogue landlords, will build on the raft of reforms previously set […]
Research To Help The CMA Get Involved
The Competition and Markets Authority are currently reaching out to the lettings community to ask for their input with some research on issues affecting low income consumers. Please see: Redress for people on low incomes … link Private rented housing problems for tenants on a low income … link These cover both low income consumers’ […]
Review of the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS)
The HHSRS was developed in the 1990s, as a tool for assessing risk relating to health and safety matters arising from deficiencies within the home. It acts as the first step local authorities take before considering which powers under Part 1 of the Housing Act 2004 Act should be used and is a component of […]
Right to Rent checks during COVID-19 outbreak
From 30 March 2020, Right to Rent checks have been temporarily adjusted to make it easier for landlords to carry them out during the coronavirus outbreak. Until further notice, landlords and letting agents do not need to see original documents and can complete Right to Rent checks over video calls. Checks will continue to be […]
Right To Rent Checks In Place From Today
From 1 February it is law that landlords or agents acting on their behalf will have to carry out quick and simple checks to ensure potential tenants have the right to rent property in the UK. For full guidance visit the Government website. A helpful user guide can be found here. There is also an updated […]
Right to Rent Scheme COVID-19 Adjusted Checks Update
The Government has announced the temporary adjustments to the Right to Rent check introduced on 30 March 2020, due to COVID-19, are ending. From 17 May 2021, agents must check the prescribed documents as set out in the Right to Rent code of practice and the landlord’s guide This means that when carrying out a […]
Rogue landlord enforcement
Government have published Guidance for local authority enforcement officers, providing them with a central reference to help tackle rogue landlords in the Private Rented Sector. Commenting, Isobel Thomson, NALS CEO, said: “This latest move from Government to stamp out rogue landlord behaviour in the PRS is another positive step, but we still have a way […]
safeagent & Landlord Accreditation Scotland partner to support agents
safeagent and Landlord Accreditation Scotland (LAS) have partnered to provide Scottish letting agents with a unique offering of specialist training and professional development. LAS is the national accreditation scheme for Scottish landlords and agents, and safeagent is the UK’s leading, not-for-profit accreditation scheme for lettings and management agents. Their partnership will support agents in Scotland […]
safeagent at Number 10 to discuss ‘No DSS’
Last week, Isobel Thomson, safeagent’s Chief Executive, attended a meeting at Number 10 Downing Street to discuss the issue of ‘No DSS’ advertisements. Taking our place alongside other leading industry organisations and companies, safeagent took part in a roundtable discussion, led by Housing Minister Heather Wheeler MP, looking at ways to stop unfair discrimination of […]
safeagent Awareness Week 2019 – A look back
Now in its eighth year, safeagent Awareness Week 2019, was about celebration, banging the drum for the good, professional safeagents. Following NALS’ rebrand to safeagent and the safeagent campaign achieving its original aim of mandatory CMP, this year’s safeagent Awareness Week was about showing consumers how agents raise standards in the private rented sector, and […]
safeagent Board Director receives OBE
We are proud to announce that Professor Paddy Gray, safeagent Board Director, received an OBE in the New Year’s Honours List. Paddy was awarded his OBE for services to Housing. Professor Emeritus of Housing at the University of Ulster, Paddy is an eminent figure in the UK housing sector. He is an authority on housing […]
safeagent calls for financial support for landlords
As the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) issues its updated coronavirus guidance ‘Mortgages and Coronavirus: Payment Deferral Guidance’, safeagent asks if mortgage deferral is the answer for buy-to-let landlords, or if now it’s time for government grants to support landlords? The FCA guidance says: Firms should allow customers to extend ongoing payment deferrals after 31 March […]
safeagent calls for Government rethink of lifting of HMO regulations for housing asylum seekers in the PRS
The Home Office has put forward a Statutory Instrument before Parliament to amend The Houses in Multiple Occupation (Asylum-Seeker Accommodation) (England) Regulations 2019. It is proposing to remove the obligation for landlords to obtain a HMO licence when providing accommodation to house asylum seekers. The measure has been put forward as a more cost-effective solution […]
safeagent calls for overhaul of Discretionary Housing Payments to support tenants in arrears
safeagent is calling for an overhaul of Discretionary Housing Payments (DHPs). Enhancing these payments – which can be made to tenants in need by Local Authorities – would be the most effective way to support those who are in arrears as a result of the pandemic. Currently, tenants can only be ‘passported’ to DHPs by […]
safeagent creates plan for a sustainable post COVID PRS
safeagent sets out process to support tenants struggling to pay their rent With the announcement that the eviction ban will be extended in England safeagent is setting out a plan to support tenants and landlords to ensure a sustainable post COVID Private Rented Sector (PRS). safeagent is calling for a fair and appropriate system to […]
safeagent free webinar: How Scottish landlords have coped with a changing PRS
Head of the Scottish Association of Landlords, John Blackwood, will discuss how Scotland has responded to changes in the PRS that will be heading England’s way soon. From banning fees, to the ending of Section 21, John will give us his take on these changes that are already in place in Scotland. NOTE: The webinar […]
safeagent Free webinar: Mindfulness on the go
This webinar is in conjunction with Andy Hobson, meditation and mindfulness teacher and practitioner. Andy is passionate about using mindfulness for reducing stress and bringing calm and clarity to your working day. This webinar is one of a series which aims to give safeagent members information about services that may be of interest; some service […]
safeagent Free webinar: Tenant Fees Bill with Woodstock Property Law
This webinar is in conjunction with Carly Jermyn from Woodstock Property Law, providers of our legal helpline. Carly will discuss the new legislation which comes into force on 1st June 2019 and the potential impact it could have on agents and their landlords. NOTE: The webinar is between 3:00 and 4:00 pm; please ensure your […]
safeagent gains Ofqual recognition for England lettings qualifications
safeagent, the UK’s largest not-for-profit accreditation scheme for lettings and management agents, has been officially recognised as an Awarding Body in England by exam watchdog Ofqual. Ofqual has also accredited safeagent’s Level 2 Foundation Lettings Course [England] and Level 3 Award in Letting and Property Management [England] qualifications. It means agents operating in England can […]
safeagent given Rent Smart Wales’ highest audit rating
safeagent’s Rent Smart Wales (RSW) training course has been given the scheme’s top ‘High Assurance’ rating following its latest audit. Passing the audit with flying colours, safeagent was awarded the highest possible rating of ‘High Assurance’. The audit found controls were robust in all relevant areas of safeagent’s training, and best practice was also demonstrated […]
safeagent Manifesto: Towards a better Private Rented Sector
As the General Election approaches, safeagent has set out its own manifesto for the Private Rented Sector (PRS) Read the safeagent manifesto in full Calling on the next Government to develop a clear and positive agenda for the PRS, safeagent has a number of key asks, which are vital to help improve the sector for […]
safeagent members FREE webinar: Asbestos Awareness
This free webinar for NALS members is an introduction to Asbestos and the session will cover what it is, how it can be spotted and how you could identify and manage the risks. It is suitable for all lettings staff. NOTE: This webinar is provided for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal […]
safeagent responds to Selective Licensing Review
Today’s Selective Licensing Review is an independent review, so while it will inform Government’s thinking, it does not necessarily provide a firm commitment to any of the recommendations. Commenting, Isobel Thomson, safeagent CEO said: “The review recommends a national landlord registration scheme, but it is not clear whether such a scheme would be an additional […]
safeagent responds to the Chancellor’s Summer Economic Update
Isobel Thomson, safeagent Chief Executive said: “Today’s package of measures announced by the Chancellor demonstrate that we are all in this together. Schemes to create youth employment, the furlough employers incentive and boosts to tourism and hospitality are all very welcome. We know that for the Private Rented Sector, these measures have an important knock on effect in helping to […]
safeagent supports Gas Safety Week 2019
We have pledged our support for Gas Safety Week (16th-22nd September 2019), helping to raise awareness about the importance of gas safety. The ninth annual Gas Safety Week sees organisations from across the UK working together to raise awareness of the dangers of poorly maintained gas appliances, which can cause gas leaks, fires, explosions and […]
safeagent supports Scottish Government’s Renters Rights campaign
We are supporting a new campaign from the Scottish Government which shines a light on renters rights. The Renters Rights campaign is designed to help tenants to know their rental rights – a vital step towards maintaining positive, trusting relationships between tenants and their landlords or letting agents. Organisations within the PRS, responsible landlords, and letting […]
safeagent supports World Homeless Day
To mark World Homeless Day safeagent has made a donation to The Big Issue Foundation, which creates opportunities to end poverty and homelessness for Big Issue vendors. safeagent is a proud supporter of the Foundation and is working with the organisation to provide advice and support on how to access the PRS. For the day, safeagent is also […]
safeagent view: A bold, balanced approach to PRS reform is needed
Reform is a huge part of what we’re focused on at the moment. Whether it’s in Westminster, the Senedd or Holyrood, change is afoot for the private rented sector. Since renting reform legislation was first mooted in the 2019 Conservative manifesto, we’ve had numerous policy reviews and consultations alongside unprecedented political upheaval. Along the way […]
safeagent view: Three key tests for PRS policy success in 2023
2022 was a stop-start year for politics. As we enter a period of potential stability, hopefully we can get back to focusing on policymaking and outcomes. In the private rented sector, we know change is coming. DLUHC has confirmed the Renters Reform Bill will be brought forward in 2023, and it was welcome to see […]
safeagent works with Haringey Trading Standards to stop rogue agents
safeagent has worked with Haringey Council Trading Standards team supporting them in a case which resulted in a letting agent being fined over £12,000. Haringey based Matthew Estates were ordered to pay £12,630 by Magistrates after being found guilty of five offences relating to false claims in respect of membership of professional trade associations. During […]
Scottish letting agents must register
From today, January 31, it is compulsory for lettings and property management agents operating in Scotland to comply with a Letting Agent Code of Practice. They must belong to a new register of letting agents, with key individuals in each agency having to meet a minimum level of training. Those who have to be qualified […]
Second Annual York Conference Highlights Industry Challenges And Solutions
The second annual NALS York Conference took place at the Royal York Hotel on Wednesday 15th March. Some 60 plus delegates heard from a wide variety of speakers, including the Home Office and Westminster Trading Standards. The theme of the Conference was “Knowledge and Innovation”. Visit the conference microsite to find out more and watch […]
Second lockdown – what does it mean for housing?
A second ‘lockdown’ with national restrictions for England comes into force this Thursday 5 November. Government have confirmed that the housing market in England will stay open. Read the National Restrictions (as of Thursday 5 November) What it means Renters & homeowners will be able to move Removal firms and estate and lettings agents can […]
Select Committee report into Draft Tenant Fees Bill – NALS responds
Commenting on the Committee’s report, Isobel Thomson, Chief Executive, NALS, said: “We recognise the time and level of scrutiny the HCLG Committee have taken with this report. NALS wants a fairer PRS for all, and we echo the committee’s conclusion that the proposed legislation could be improved to make the market both fairer and more […]
Shelter Wales Launch Campaign Calling On The Welsh Government To Ban Letting Agent Fees In Wales
Shelter Wales have launched a campaign calling on the Welsh Government to ban letting agent fees in Wales.They carried out a mystery shop of 85 agents across Wales and they are publishing a report on the findings and launching an Assembly petition. The campaign is here Isobel Thomson, Chief Executive of NALS said: “We want a […]
STUDENT RENTERS SURVIVAL GUIDE
The National Approved Letting Scheme (NALS) top tips for first-time renters Whether you’re off to university, or moving into your first flat-share, the National Approved Letting Scheme (NALS), a countrywide organisation trying to make renting safer, has some useful advice. Do your research and use a professional There are a number letting agent bodies […]
Tenant fee ban ‘not before Spring 2019’
Following continued uncertainty over the timings of implementation of the tenant fee ban, NALS has sought confirmation from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) on when they expect the legislation to come into force. The department confirmed to NALS that implementation of the tenant fee legislation will not be before Spring 2019. […]
Tenant Fee Ban applies from 1 June 2019
This week, it was announced that the Tenant Fee Ban will come into effect from 1 June 2019. The announcement was made by Lord Bourne of Aberystwyth, the government’s housing spokesperson in the House of Lords, who said: “The ban on lettings fees would apply to all tenancies signed after this date.” Responding to the […]
Tenant Fees Act is now in force – safeagent responds
Commenting on the Tenant Fee Act which is now in force in England, Isobel Thomson, Chief Executive of safeagent said: “There’s no going back now, but will the ban on tenant fees have the desired effect Government has been hoping for, with more money in tenants’ pockets, or will it be a case of them […]
Tenant Fees Bill gets second reading
Today the Tenant Fees Bill has its second reading in the House of Commons, which provides MPs with the opportunity to debate the Bill for the first time. At the end of the reading, MPs will vote on whether the Bill should proceed to the next stage. The House of Commons Library has provided MPs […]
The DPS & safeagent announce two further e-learning modules as part of accredited award for agents & landlords
The Deposit Protection Service (The DPS) and safeagent have announced two further e-learning modules as part of an independently accredited award for landlords and letting agents. The modules, which follow e-courses on starting residential tenancies and preparing for disputes, focus on the key stages of a tenancy and the main considerations when reaching the end […]
The DPS and safeagent offer free online course on new tenancies
safeagent and The Deposit Protection Service (The DPS) have created a free, online course to enable letting agents to start tenancies off on the right footing. Since 2007, The DPS, the UK’s largest protector of tenancy deposits has run hundreds of face-to-face seminars for landlords and letting agents across the country. Its new, interactive e-module […]
The Fairer PRS White Paper
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, […]
The Money Laundering & Terrorist Financing (Amendment) Regulations 2019
Legislation on the Fifth Anti-Money Laundering Directive (5th AML) – The Money Laundering & Terrorist Financing (Amendment) Regulations 2019 – which will impact regulated estate and letting agents, comes into force on 10 January 2020. The Regulations will impact letting agents who deal with rental payments from landlords of over 10,000 euros per month and […]
The Queen’s Speech – Measures announced for renters’ reform
In Tuesday’s Queen’s Speech, the Government reaffirmed its commitment to reform the private rented sector ‘to deliver a better deal for renters’. We now have further detail from the Government on its planned reforms: A White Paper, set to be published in the Autumn, will outline the Government’s package of proposals to create a reformed and […]
The Queen’s Speech: what does it tell us about plans for PRS reform?
Yesterday’s Queen’s Speech and State Opening of Parliament unveiled 38 bills the government intends to bring forward during this parliamentary session. References to reform of the private rented sector in the speech itself were brief, but media is reporting that plans for a renters reform bill will evolve during this session. Specific PRS legislation reportedly […]
The Rental Exchange Questions And Answers
To download The Rental Exchange Q&As brochure, please click here
The safeagent view: Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 comes into force today
As of today, new legislation comes into force in Wales that will change how landlords operate, with the tenant becoming a ‘contract holder’, and tenancy agreements replaced with ‘occupation contracts’. The legislation aims to simplify and improve the process of renting for both landlords and tenants, and introduces measures such as: an extended eviction notice […]
The sold out NALS Conference 2014 took place at the Mermaid Theatre in London on the 13th November. The industry came together for a day of discussion, debate, networking, and learning with a wide variety of speakers reflecting the theme of this year’s event: “Agents on the line: offline, online and frontline”.
The sold out NALS Conference 2014 took place at the Mermaid Theatre in London on the 13th November. The industry came together for a day of discussion, debate, networking, and learning with a wide variety of speakers reflecting the theme of this year’s event: “Agents on the line: offline, online and frontline”. Individual speaker and […]
Tough sentence for dodgy letting agents sentenced to 28 months
Three men behind a dodgy letting agency have each been sentenced to 28 months in prison following a major investigation by Islington Council and a five-week trial. The men, who ran companies in Islington and neighbouring boroughs using the trading name Crestons, were convicted of carrying on business for a fraudulent purpose in a trial […]
Training to help letting agents navigate new Welsh housing laws now available
Agents operating in Wales can now access the latest on Welsh housing policy to help landlords and tenants navigate the newly introduced Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016, thanks to revised training from safeagent. The UK’s largest not-for-profit accreditation scheme for lettings and management agents has updated its Foundation Lettings Course content for agents in Wales, […]
Understanding property licensing with London Property Licensing
This webinar is delivered by Richard Tacagni MCIEH CEnvH, a Chartered Environmental Health Practitioner with over 25 years experience; not many people possess the same level of knowledge and expertise when it comes to property licensing and the regulation of the private rented sector! REGISTER
Universal Credit – Advice
Minister for Families, Supported Housing and Child Maintenance, Justin Tomlinson: I understand that Universal Credit has felt like a huge cultural change for many letting agents, landlords and tenants. Universal Credit is a flexible benefit that gives people more control over their working lives and their finances. Payment under Universal Credit is designed to mirror […]
Updated ‘How to’ Guides
Government have today updated the ‘How to Rent’, ‘How to Rent a Safe Home’ and ‘How to Let‘ Guides. The guides were last updated in June 2019 and have now been updated to reflect new laws which have come into force as a result of the Tenant Fees Act 2019 and the Electrical Safety Act 2020. As the ‘How to Rent’ guide must be […]
Updated guidance on Homes for Ukraine scheme
safeagent welcomes the further advice Government has provided for those sponsoring a Ukrainian refugee under the Homes for Ukraine scheme. This guidance explains more about how sponsors can help their guests establish themselves in the UK and outlines the options available when a sponsorship is coming to an end. Read the update in full here. […]
Urgent: Safety checks on private blocks following the Grenfell Tower fire
The Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG) has issued urgent safety checks following the Grenfell Tower fire in London last week. Following the horrific fire, DCLG has asked NALS to issue guidelines immediately to its members about the checks that should be made on buildings in England with Aluminium Composite Material cladding. Melanie Dawes, […]
Virtual Right to Rent checks extended until 5 April 2022
The Home Office has announced that the adjustments to Right to Rent checks, which were made due to COVID 19, will now continue until 5 April 2022 rather than 31 August 2021, giving letting agents more time to continue with Right to Rent checks virtually rather than face-to-face. The decision to defer the date for the […]
WARNING NOTICE
NALS is a licensing scheme for lettings and management agents operating in the Private Rented Sector. All firms registered with NALS meet strict compliance criteria including operating to defined accounting standards, holding Professional Indemnity Insurance and being included under the NALS Client Money Protection Scheme. The following websites display our logo but have no connection […]
Welsh fees ban now in force
As of 1 September 2019, the Renting Homes (Fees etc.) (Wales) Act 2019 is now in force. Agents and landlords in Wales entering into new tenancies from 1 September 2019 will only be able to charge for: Rent Security deposit Holding deposit (one weeks rent) Payments in default Payments in respect of council tax Payments […]
Welsh Government move to ban fees
Welsh Government have announced a Bill banning fees charged in the private rented sector. The private rented sector in Wales now accounts for 15% of all housing and Government have said they intend the Bill will make things simpler and fairer for tenants. The Renting Homes (Fees etc.) (Wales) Bill will: ensure tenants are no […]
Welsh Government request for untenanted property
safeagent has been asked by Welsh Government ask our agents to provide assistance in sourcing empty property which is urgently needed for a range of people affected by homelessness in Wales. Local authorities in Wales have been working hard to source suitable, safe, and secure accommodation for a range of people affected by homelessness over the […]
Welsh letting fees: guidance for landlords and letting agents
The Welsh Government has issued guidance on the upcoming Renting Homes (Fees etc.) (Wales) Act 2019. There isn’t long now prepare for the ban, which comes into force in Wales on 1 September 2019. The guidance explains what landlords and letting agents can and can’t charge tenants for from 1 September. About the ban Any […]
What will a new Government mean for the PRS?
Liz Truss is the new leader of the Conservative Party and Prime Minister, following the results of the leadership vote being confirmed on Monday (5 September). Boris Johnson gave his resignation speech today (6 September). Liz Truss will now be taking up residence at Number 10 Downing Street and is expected to announce her cabinet […]
What’s happening in the PRS? – safeagent reveals the state of the market
In our latest research we asked safeagent firms to give their thoughts on the state of the market, and how tenants and landlords are faring during the pandemic. Arrears – While agents indicated that some tenants are facing difficulties, arrears should be put into context. 62% of respondents said that the proportion of their tenants who […]
White paper on PRS reform delayed until 2022
The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) have revealed that they plan to publish the White Paper on PRS reform in 2022, allowing the “additional and necessary time to develop the balanced package of reforms that we promised to deliver.” The Department said that will “not only allow us to benefit from continued work with […]
Working safely during COVID-19: New guidelines
This week Government announced their route map for easing the lockdown, including new guidelines for businesses. Current advice on home moves remains the same, that buyers and renters should, where possible, delay moving to a new house while measures are in place to fight COVID-19. Latest guidance (11 May 2020) ‘Our plan to rebuild: The […]