Renters reform to tip the balance

Proposals include the abolition of what are known as ‘no-fault’ Section 21 evictions, though the bill could also give landlords rights to gain possession of their properties through the courts ‘where there is legitimate need’, with promises to speed up court proceedings where possible.

Grounds for regaining possession could be non-payment of rent or a landlord seeking to refurbish or sell a property, though thorough evidence would need to be provided.

This would mean greater risk for landlords and some rental properties may be taken off the market as a result.

Knight Frank can steer landowners through the transition period by reviewing portfolios of rental properties to assess what’s possible, whether that’s disposals or new management solutions.

Chris Terrett, Rural Asset Management