Industry News NRLA Communications Team 14/03/2024

NRLA and Crisis call on Government to provide clarity on Renters (Reform) Bill

The NRLA, in collaboration with leading anti-homelessness charity Crisis, has published a joint letter calling for the Government to urgently provide clarity on the future of the Renters (Reform) Bill.

With speculation about possible draft amendments to the Bill rife across the national press, it is critical that the Government take steps to update key stakeholders on the direction of travel with respect to these proposed rental reforms.

Addressed to DLUHC Secretary of State Michael Gove MP, the letter’s contents are as follows:

Dear Secretary of State,

The Renters (Reform) Bill represents the biggest set of changes to the private rented sector for over 30 years. It is vital that it supports tenants and responsible landlords and prevents homelessness.

Over recent weeks a number of media reports have suggested that the Government is considering amendments to the Bill.

The rumour, speculation and a litany of off-the record briefings are causing a huge amount of concern and uncertainty for tenants and responsible landlords.

We therefore call on the Government to publish, as a matter of urgency and in full, any amendments it might now be considering so that all parties can judge for themselves what is on the table and debate the substance in public. Time is running out to ensure that this Bill can complete its passage through Parliament with the proper consideration it deserves.

The lack of progress and uncertainty about the future is destabilising and damaging for those living and working in the private-rented sector. This has to end. In light of the public interest in this matter we plan to make this letter public.

Yours sincerely,

Ben Beadle, Chief Executive, National Residential Landlords Association

Matt Downie, Chief Executive, Crisis

If you have any questions in relation to the above letter, please email [email protected]