Good news for UK landlords, especially those who rent to students! The Levelling Up, Housing and Communities Select Committee of MPs has backed the National Residential Landlords Association's (NRLA) proposals for rental reform.
The NRLA, a group that represents the interests of landlords, has been vocal about the changes needed in the Government's rental reform bill plans. Now, the committee has recommended several radical changes to these proposals that could benefit UK landlords.
The recommended changes include:
1. A shakeup of the court system before any changes to Section 21 or Section 8 possession notices are made.
This includes a swift response from the courts for matters relating to rent arrears or anti-social behavior, and the establishment of a new Housing Court.
2. Making anti-social behavior a mandatory ground for possession without the need for a criminal conviction.
This could be a big win for landlords and tenants, especially those who live in HMOs with nightmare housemates who can't be evicted quickly.
3. Exempting student landlords from plans to abolish fixed terms.
This is great news for students and those working in the sector who were hoping for this change.
4. A review of recent landlord tax changes on the buy-to-let (BTL) market to make the Private Rented Sector more financially attractive to smaller landlords.
While these recommendations have been submitted to the government, it remains to be seen whether they will be implemented, but the change in anti-landlord tone to recognition of the important role private accommodation providers play in the housing market is especially welcome for us all working in the industry.
