Call To Implement Rental Sector Reform

A landlords' organisation is urging the new government to look carefully at rental sector reform so that landlords can repossess their rental property when legitimately entitled to do so.

The call is being made by the Residential Landlords' Association (RLA), who say that the Conservative Party's manifesto declares its ambition to end Section 21 repossessions but it also mentions wanting to strengthen a landlord's right for the repossessing of their property.

Now, the RLA says that the government must now ensure there are comprehensive and clear grounds for landlords to repossess a property in cases such as a tenant being in rent arrears and antisocial behaviour.

They also say that this framework should be independent with a properly funded and dedicated housing court so they can take time to rule on and also enforce any repossession case.

'Working with the government to develop plans'

The RLA's policy director, David Smith, said: "We are looking forward to working with the government as it develops plans for the private rental sector.

"The demand for rental housing remains strong and it's vital that Conservative plans for the sector have the full confidence of landlords while being fair to tenants."

He added that the General Election result should also see Labour's plans for rent controls being rejected outright by voters.

Letting agent clarity boosts tenant satisfaction

Meanwhile, it's been revealed that when tenants are given clear information about what they should expect from letting agents and landlords, leads to greater levels of satisfaction.

The payment automation provider, PayProp, says that by educating tenants on the expectations and roles of each party will help reduce any confusion and reduce disputes.

The firm's chief executive, Neil Cobbold, said: "Educating tenants proactively on the rental process can save an agent time from having to mediate disputes between tenants and landlords."

He added that areas where tenants may not have a full understanding relate to their property's upkeep and financial obligations.

'They are clear on what to expect'

Mr Cobbold added: "It's important to ensure tenants are informed throughout a tenancy and when they are clear on what to expect, they will be more satisfied and stay in their home for longer."

Among the information that should be made clear to tenants will be the length of tenancy, all of the relevant rent payment dates as well as notice periods so tenants will know what is expected of them.

Mr Cobbold says that in conjunction with promoting the How to Rent guide, agents should boost renter satisfaction by taking these extra steps to educate all of their tenants.