Low level of landlord awareness about Reform Bill contents

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.  

The trade body’s latest study found that 72 per cent of landlords were worried about the end of Section 21 notices, and 69 per cent 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.

Around 1 in 5 (18 per cent) of landlords agreed that they understood the Renters Reform Bill, while only 3 per cent of those surveyed had read the guidance surrounding the legislation.  

52 per cent 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.

Commenting on the report’s findings, Timothy Douglas, Head of Policy and Campaigns at Propertymark, says:  “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 the 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.”