The removal of Section 21 notices and the end of fixed-term tenancies are the two issues that concern landlords the most, according to a new report issued by Propertymark.
Propertymark’s latest study found that 72% of landlords were worried about the end of Section 21 notices, and 69% viewed the removal of fixed-term tenancies as an issue.
Under the Renters (Reform) Bill, fixed-term tenancies, including assured and assured shorthold tenancies, will be abolished, and replaced by periodic tenancies with no fixed end date. The Bill will also abolish section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions.
18% of landlords agreed that they understood the Renters (Reform) Bill, while only 3% of those surveyed had read the guidance surrounding the legislation.
52% of landlords surveyed disagreed that the guidance that accompanied the Bill was sufficient placing an emphasis on landlords using a professional letting agent to navigate future changes.
Timothy Douglas, Head of Policy and Campaigns at Propertymark, said: “Propertymark has long argued that a fixed term tenancy allows security of tenure for the tenant and a guarantee of rent payments for the landlord. The Renters (Reform) Bill will only be workable in practice if it addresses the on-the-ground challenges, we know affect landlords.
"Furthermore, it is imperative that landlords are aware of the upcoming legislation and are given adequate guidance and support to deliver a high level of service for tenants. Propertymark agents have a key role to play in the implementation of the legislation.”