Despite the recent enactment of the Renters Rights Act, property experts maintain that residential property remains a sound and viable long-term investment for landlords. This sentiment was underscored by the property consultancy Knight Frank following the bill’s passage into law, which marks a pivotal reform in the private rented sector. Beverley Kennard, Knight Frank’s Head of Lettings Operations, emphasised that the core principles for successful letting—such as thorough tenant referencing, maintaining positive landlord-tenant relationships, professional property management, and seeking reliable advice—remain crucial and unchanged. Kennard urged landlords not to view the legislation as a cause for alarm, stressing that with proper preparation, the private rented sector will continue to offer stability and worthwhile returns.

As the market awaits further clarity on the act’s implementation, expected within the next six months, it is important to recognise that the legislation primarily aims to eliminate rogue landlord practices rather than penalise responsible property owners. This fundamental point has been echoed by various key figures in the industry who see the changes as an opportunity to raise standards and professionalise the rental market further.

Lucy Jones, chief operating officer at lettings group Lomond, highlighted that the reforms bring much-needed clarity and protections for both landlords and tenants. According to Jones, while some landlords may find the new responsibilities daunting—particularly concerning tenancy agreements, possession protocols, rent increase guidelines, and property standards—the legislation provides a platform to elevate consistency across the sector. Lomond, already operating at high standards, views the Act as a chance to support landlords and tenants through the legislative transition, helping to cultivate a fairer and more professional rental market.

Similarly, Marc von Grundherr, director of Benham and Reeves, welcomed the end of previous uncertainty but flagged the coming period as one of heightened compliance complexity. He acknowledged that increased administrative duties and reduced operational flexibility might test landlords’ patience initially. However, von Grundherr expressed optimism that, once the finer operational details are finalised, the sector would stabilise, allowing confidence to rebuild.

The National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA) chief executive, Ben Beadle, described the Renters Rights Act as the most significant overhaul of the rental market in nearly four decades. He urged government engagement with landlords to ensure the reforms are applied in a manner that is both equitable and practical. Beadle emphasised the necessity for at least six months’ notice before the Act’s provisions become fully operational, particularly to allow smooth transitions, especially ahead of peak rental periods like the academic year for student housing. His comments underlined concern that without careful implementation, the reforms could exacerbate housing supply challenges by discouraging long-term investment in rental properties. The NRLA remains committed to collaborating with policymakers to monitor the legislation’s effects and advocate for adjustments where necessary.

The Act introduces several key changes, including the abolition of Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions and the establishment of new tenancy frameworks designed to provide increased security and rights for renters. The government has described the legislation as historic, affirming its commitment to improving renters’ protection while balancing landlords’ rights. Among other reforms, the introduction of a Decent Homes Standard in the private sector aims to enhance property quality, and measures to curb rental bidding wars seek to promote fairness in the market.

However, while the legislation has royal assent and is now law, specific implementation timelines for various provisions have not yet been fully disclosed. The private rented sector awaits this crucial information to adapt fully. Industry stakeholders, including Propertymark and Landlord Studio, have called for detailed guidance and clear timelines to facilitate a smooth transition. The anticipated 'big bang' commencement date for the new tenancy system signals potentially rapid change, reinforcing the importance of preparedness among landlords and agents alike.

In summary, though the Renters Rights Act represents a substantial shift in rental market regulation—ushering in new compliance demands and curbing certain landlord flexibilities—the consensus among industry experts is that property investment retains its appeal. With the right strategies, expert advice, and adaptation to forthcoming regulatory frameworks, landlords can continue to benefit from the sector’s enduring fundamentals and stability.

📌 Reference Map:

  • Paragraph 1 – [1] (Property Investor Today)
  • Paragraph 2 – [1] (Property Investor Today)
  • Paragraph 3 – [1] (Property Investor Today)
  • Paragraph 4 – [1] (Property Investor Today)
  • Paragraph 5 – [1] (Property Investor Today), [3] (Gov.uk)
  • Paragraph 6 – [1] (Property Investor Today), [5] (Anthony Gold Solicitors), [4] (Shelter England)
  • Paragraph 7 – [1] (Property Investor Today), [6] (Propertymark), [7] (Landlord Studio)

Source: Noah Wire Services