Senior letting agent slates 'too few' amendments to Renters' Rights Bill

A leading letting agent has slammed the progress of the Renters’ Rights Bill which left the House of Lords (main image) with few amendments.

The Bill will soon move on to the report stage, but Allison Thompson (pictured) national lettings managing director at LRG, says it’s disappointing that so few of the 280-plus amendments were taken on board.

These have included measures to delay Section 21 evictions ban until the courts are ready for the additional work; that fixed term tenancies of up to 12 months should be retained (with the ability to agree extensions) and/or the ability for tenants to request a specified term at any time after four months’ occupancy; that student tenancies should remain as fixed-term tenancies to provide certainty to tenants and landlords, and that landlords who let fewer than five properties should continue to be able to issue Section 21 eviction notices.

“Many of these proposals were practical and proportionate, offering a better path to balanced reform,” says Thompson.

“This was a real opportunity to address concerns about court delays, fixed-term tenancies and the risks of rushed implementation. Instead, we’re seeing significant changes pushed through with limited clarity on how they will work in practice.

“We support the principle of reform, particularly when it comes to improving safety, fairness and transparency for tenants. But these changes will only succeed if they are workable for landlords too. What we need now is clarity, consistency and practical guidance.”

In the meantime, she advises landlords to start preparing for a shift in how they manage tenancies. The removal of fixed terms, changes to rent increase processes and new responsibilities around pets and damp mean that tenancy agreements will need updating.

“Many of these proposals were practical and proportionate, offering a better path to balanced reform

Rent guarantee insurance and legal cover should also be reviewed, says Thompson, as many existing policies might not reflect the new legal environment. And with more pressure on local enforcement and court systems, working with a qualified, regulated letting agent has never been more important, she adds.

“We urge the government to continue working with the sector to ensure the transition is fair and effective. Reform must be more than a political milestone; it must work on the ground for those providing and living in rented homes.”