White Paper concerns… should I be worried?

There has been a large amount of coverage over the last 2 months about the measures proposed in the White Paper and the issues this could cause for the Private Rented Sector (PRS).

For those who are not aware of what this is, the White Paper is a document which includes the Government’s initial proposals as to how they will fundamentally reform the PRS and level up the housing quality in England. The document is available to the public on the Government website.

 

See below a snapshot of changes proposed in the White Paper. There are 4 main categories:

1. Increased Security for Tenants

Abolition of Section 21 “no fault” evictions and introduction of a simpler tenancy structure (which a tenant would be able to terminate on two months’ notice at any time).

Reform of grounds of possession making it easier to evict a Tenant via a Section 8 route

2. Positive Renting Experience

Illegal for landlords or agents to have blanket bans on renting to families with children or those in receipt of benefits

Make ‘your house your home’

Tenants right to Pets

Lifetime Deposits

3. Safe and Decent Homes

Limitations on rent reviews so that they are a ‘fair market rent’

Introduce a PRS Decent Homes Standard (DHS)

Potentially and annual ‘Property MOT’ which may simplify Landlord responsibilities

4. Improved Dispute Resolution

New single Property Ombudsman to help streamline legislation

Better compliance

 

It’s no surprise that the Rental Reforms White Paper has caused concern and worry for landlords. However, although the PRS Industry will need to adapt, we don’t believe there is cause for worry.

Whilst no fault S21 evictions are being abolished, Landlords will still be able to evict tenants through S8 for Rental Arrears, Anti Social Behaviour or if they are selling their property or moving back into their property. The new S8 process will become easier and more streamlined.

HOP feel that the changes announced in the White paper will drive a balanced and fair Rental industry and are aimed at pushing out unscrupulous landlords and unfair practices, as well as increasing the quality of housing for Tenants.

It is also worth highlighting that these proposed plans have a long way to go. First the Rental Reforms will need to go through the government process before any decisions and changes are made.

HOP are continuously keeping up-to-date on any changes to the proposed legislations. As and when official legislations are confirmed, HOP will be contacting our landlords to advice and support where possible.

If you would like to discuss your concerns with HOP, please don’t hesitate to contact a member of the team on 0113 320 2000.

 

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