BPF comments on the introduction of the Renters' Rights Bill

Commenting on the introduction of the Renters' Rights Bill, our Director of Policy Ian Fletcher said:

“Rental reform has been long promised, and like the new Government we want to see it done. Much of the provisions of the Renters’ Right Bill we will support, because they will lead to a better rental sector. Our primary concern remains the ability of the courts to deal with the increased workload that will come their way without s21, which is why we had taken a hard line with the previous Government to secure court improvements ahead of the legislation being passed. We can see why the new Government wants to inject new pace into reform, and it has made some reassuring commitments to continue to improve the courts. Without court reform and improvement, the new system won’t work well and deliver fair access to justice. It remains therefore our number one priority to ensure the courts are working well, and we hope it is a priority of the Government’s too.

"As representatives of responsible landlords, however, we are pleased to see other commitments continue to be taken forward. A landlord register is something we have campaigned for since 2007. Responsible landlords will also welcome the continued commitment to a Private Rented Sector Ombudsman. And the appreciation that the student accommodation market must be able to operate on an annual basis to facilitate student access to higher education.

"Overall, we believe the rented sectors can make an important contribution to the expansion of housing supply, it is therefore reassuring to see the Bill contains nothing that resembles rent controls, and an appreciation that stability, certainty, and clarity are the cornerstones of increased investment in the sector. We look forward to further engaging on the Bill.”