No let up in regulation for landlords

Permalink: No let up in regulation for landlords
by Gill Montia

Landlord Assist has something to say about the level of regulation (existing and proposed) in the buy-to-let sector.

The eviction and rent recovery specialist has spoken out regarding new measures outlined recently by housing minister, John Healey.

Mr Healey wants to improve standards of service within the private rented sector and has confirmed that he is pushing ahead with the creation of a national register for landlords.

Proposals also include the development of a “Trip Adviser” style website that tenants could use to review their landlords and accommodation.

The idea has alarmed Landlord Assist, which believes it is unworkable because of the level of policing that would be required to prevent malicious content.

According to the firm’s managing director, Graham Kinnear: “In recent years landlords have had to conform with energy performance certificates, deposit administration and the new legislation of the 2004 Housing Act.”

He adds: “In addition, changes in fire regulations as well legislation relating to Houses in Multiple Occupancy and the Housing Health and Safety Rating System has meant that landlords’ costs have increased significantly.”

The National Landlords’ Association is in agreement, having already accused the Government of “landlord-bashing”.

However, large investors in the UK’s private rental sector may be in line for some Government support.

Having acknowledged that the sector will play a critical role within the housing system in the years ahead, ministers are looking at the possibility of stamp duty concessions and the use of real estate investment trusts (currently the domain of commercial property investors) to encourage investment by big players.