Industry News Sally Walmsley 11/06/2021

NRLA invited to high level Government talks

NRLA chief executive Ben Beadle has been invited to join Government discussions on plans for widespread reform of the PRS.

The Government promised a white paper on its proposals for new legislation in this year’s Queen’s Speech, two years after it announced plans for a Renters’ Reform Bill, which would see the abolition of Section 21 repossessions - so-called ‘no fault’ evictions

Ahead of publication, the Government is inviting stakeholders to discuss the plans, with the NRLA invited to the first of a series of roundtable meetings, chaired by Eddie Hughes MP, Minister for Rough Sleeping and Housing.

The meeting, later this month, will focus on establishing the challenges facing the private rented sector and delivering change that works for all.

NRLA chief executive Ben Beadle said: “The outline proposals detailed when the bill was first mooted two years ago included some of the biggest changes to the private rented sector in 30 years.

“It is therefore vital the Government ensures reforms are fair and workable for both landlords and tenants and we will be working with Ministers to make sure that is the case.

“The original proposals included a commitment to strengthen landlords’ rights to repossess, with valid reason, and we will make it clear we expect them to honour this.

“Any new legislation must include comprehensive grounds upon which landlords can legitimately repossess properties. We would also like to see the development of a new tenant-landlord conciliation service to help sustain tenancies wherever possible and court reform to ensure possession cases are dealt with quickly and efficiently.

“Once again, we will be representing members at key discussions at the highest level and would encourage members to get in touch to share their views about our Renters’ Reform plans."

The white paper, along with the findings of a Government consultation on reform plans will be published this autumn.

More information

  • The NRLA launched its own Renters’ Reform Bill proposals late last year, following in-depth consultation with members and others across the sector. The proposals have been sent to Government and we will continue to campaign to shape the planned reforms.
  • The campaigns page here includes a link allowing you to give feedback and share your thoughts on the NRLA proposals. Alternatively, you can email [email protected].

 

Sally Walmsley

Sally Walmsley Magazine and Digital Editor

Sally is the Magazine and Digital Editor for the NRLA. With 20 years’ experience writing for regional and national newspapers and magazines she is responsible for editing our members' magazine 'Property', producing our articles for our news site, the weekly and monthly bulletins and editorial content for our media partners.

See all articles by Sally Walmsley