Speaking at the National Landlord Investment Show, Susie Crolla, Managing Director of The Guild of Letting and Management, urged landlords to “get your ducks in a row” by checking tenancy records, reviewing paperwork, making sure documents are valid and confirming all required licences are in place.

“Being caught on the back foot is not a good thing for landlords,” she warned, adding that landlords need to be proactive as the private rental sector continues to move towards higher standards.

The next phase of the Renters’ Rights Act will introduce further requirements for landlords, including the rollout of a new Private Rented Sector Database and mandatory membership of a new Ombudsman service. The reforms are designed to improve accountability, provide better information about the sector and give tenants a clearer route for resolving disputes.

However, landlords will also need to prepare for further changes ahead, including higher expectations around property conditions. Future reforms will include an updated  Decent Homes Standard for the private rented sector and the extension of Awaab’s Law, which will place greater focus on how quickly landlords respond to serious hazards in rented homes.

Crolla said landlords should not wait until requirements come into force before reviewing their processes.

“Whether they have one property, a hundred or a thousand, they need to go through the whole history of the tenancy, look at the paperwork, check the validity of documents and make sure they have the correct licences in place,” she said.

Her advice reflects concerns raised by landlords attending the show, who said staying informed and adapting to new responsibilities will be key.

Shanti Vara, a landlord from Wembley, said he felt prepared for the next stage of reform but remained concerned about the practical challenges landlords face when dealing with difficult tenant situations. For him, preparation is not just about understanding legislation but also having the right approach and communication skills to manage relationships effectively.

Crolla also highlighted the importance of stronger communication between landlords and tenants, particularly for self-managing landlords. She said clear expectations around repairs, maintenance and responsibilities can help prevent disputes and improve the rental experience for both sides.

For some landlords, navigating the changes remains a learning process. Janet Adjei, who became an accidental landlord, said she is continuing to build her knowledge of what is required to manage a rental property successfully.

Meanwhile, Ben Olugoufobu said landlords need to recognise that the sector is changing and take responsibility for keeping up.

“There's a lot for landlords to absorb, but the key is not to ignore what is happening. The sector is changing, and landlords need to educate themselves and make sure they understand their responsibilities,” he added.

A landlord with 21 years’ experience herself, Crolla believes the reforms will ultimately benefit those who operate professionally.

“Landlords that are good will thrive,” she said. “The standards will be higher and that will benefit tenants and landlords.”

With further reforms ahead, landlords who prepare early, keep accurate records, maintain high property standards and build strong tenant relationships will be best placed to adapt to the changing rental landscape.

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