Renters' Reform should Provide Level Playing Field for Renters and Landlords says JLPM
Creating a level playing field for renters and landlords should form the central principle in the Government's reforms of the Renters' Reform Bill, says Robert Burdett of James Leigh Property Management. And Mr. Burdett is supportive of the proposals put forward by the National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA) which has outlined a new deal for rented housing.
Robert Burdett said, "Landlords and their tenants need to have legislation in place that provides a level playing field for both parties. On the one hand, a recognition that a property belongs to a landlord and that property needs to be respected. And on the other hand, protecting the rights of good tenants so that they can stay in their homes."
Mr. Burdett continued," We need to see absolute clarity around what constitutes grounds for possession of a property. Court reform is also needed, with the introduction of a dedicated housing court or tribunal with the right expertise to ensure consistency for both landlord and tenant. And finally, reform that creates lifetime deposits that enable tenants to pass their deposit directly between landlords, while protecting landlords' rights to make valid claims for damages to properties."
The NRLA is calling for three key elements of reform:
1. Clear and comprehensive grounds for possession
2. Court reform and conciliation
3. Lifetime Deposits
The abolition of Section 21 at the end of 2019 was headline-grabbing news, but landlords must retain the right to repossess their homes, providing they have a legitimate reason to do so.
With the announcement of the introduction of Renters' Reform Bill plans, Mr. Burdett believes that the Government has the perfect opportunity to work with landlords and tenants groups to make credible reforms to current legislation that strikes a balance between the needs of landlords and tenants.
Mr. Burdett said, "If the Government goes ahead with its Renters' Reform Bill plans in 2021 we have a perfect opportunity to bring together tenants, landlords and their representative bodies to make change that will create a level playing field for both landlords and tenants."