The National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA) is asking all landlords – not just its members – to give their views on the government’s Fairer Private Rental Sector White Paper.
The White Paper features a range of proposals including the removal of Section 21 eviction powers; strengthening some mandatory grounds for eviction under Section 8, including repeated arrears; extending the Decent Homes Standard to cover the private rented sector; stronger powers for tenants to challenge landlords and claim back rent where homes don’t meet the Decent Homes Standard; strengthening the current bans on not renting to tenants with children or those receiving benefits under consumer protection law, by making it explicit under property law; and stopping landlords from refusing a tenant’s request to have a pet in the property without a good reason, but allowing them to require the tenant to get insurance  to cover any damage.
Now the NRLA wants landlords to give their views on the following issues: which parts of the proposed reforms threaten the private rented sector; which parts could landlords live with; what will be the impact of these reforms on the sector; which specific parts of the sector are most at risk; and whether suppliers to the industry have similar fears.
The NRLA said: “Your responses will help us identify those areas of most concern. It provides an evidence base and help us point out the consequences of these reforms if passed unchecked.”
The consultation will take about 25 to complete and those who take part can be entered into a draw for John Lewis vouchers worth £200.
Sheldon Bosley Knight’s business development manager, Nik Kyriacou said: “We know how important it is to have a thriving, well managed and healthy lettings sector.
“There is a lot to digest in the White Paper and we know it’s not been welcomed by everyone in the industry. So, it’s important our landlords get a chance to have their say and therefore we would encourage them to take part in the consultation.
“Every voice counts and the results will help inform the sector’s future response to the White Paper.
“Given the Tory leadership contest, it is also a great opportunity to inform the new incumbent of Number 10 about the industry’s concerns.”
Click here to take part in the consultation.