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No doubt you’ve heard whispers about the anticipated “Tenancy Reform Bill”. This potential legislation has been a topic of conversation for years now, but what does it actually mean for you, a landlord? Read on to find out what we understand so far.

Please keep in mind that information presented in the media often lacks full context. At present, there are no new laws enacted. However, the proposed changes under discussion seem promising, likely to bring about positive developments for all involved parties.

In the following, we’ll touch on key changes, but first, let’s address the recent concerns about Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs).

Despite prevalent concerns, there are no immediate, fixed legal changes to EPCs. A proposal to implement a new minimum requirement by 2025 has been delayed (the government missed its own consultation deadline in January). The next tentative date is now 2028, but this is also subject to change.

Industry assessors generally concur that there’s no firm consensus yet. It’s also likely that the criteria for achieving an EPC of “C” will be adjusted to accommodate more properties. We recommend landlords avoid investing in upgrades aimed at improving their EPC rating until concrete changes are officially announced.

As soon as we receive updates, we’ll pass them on. For now, there’s no need to worry!

Moving on to the Tenancy Reform itself, please note these are only proposals and could change. Some key points likely to be enacted are:

• Abolition of Section 21 notices: Don’t fret just yet! More on this below.
• Substantial expansion of other grounds for possession; options to provide notice for personal use, sale, or family occupation remain.
• Notices can be served after 6 months for all fixed-term tenancies.
• Notice period for property damage or antisocial behaviour could be shortened to two weeks.
• Section 8 notice period for rent arrears/consistent late payment could reduce to four weeks.

Pets in rentals has been a longstanding issue, but it looks set to be resolved:

• Landlords will no longer be able to unreasonably decline pets in their property.
• Tenants with pets will be required to have special pet insurance covering potential damages.
• Existing clauses such as “no pets” in leasehold properties still apply.
• Tenants can appeal to the new ombudsman if pets are unreasonably denied, although the definition of “reasonable” remains unclear.

Likely changes in the Property Ombudsman and Portal regulations aim to provide protection against rogue landlords. The key elements we understand so far are:

• All landlords will be required to register.
• A registration fee will apply, although the amount is still under discussion.
• If your property is fully managed by RentMyHouse.co.uk, we can handle most of these steps on your behalf.

This is all the information we have at the moment. Rest assured, we will keep you updated with more details as they emerge. Stay tuned!”