NRLA research suggests Renters' Reform Bill could push up rental costs

A consultation launched by the NRLA reveals the views and likely market reaction of NRLA members and non-members to the forthcoming introduction of the Government’s rental reform White Paper.

Our special report, entitled “A Fairer Rented Sector? The landlord perspective on the renters’ reform White Paper”, is based on responses and interviews with 3,200 independent landlords. The consultation with these individuals occurred between August and September 2022.

Most notably, the research reveals how the 87% of respondents believe that the Government’s presentation of its reforms is “hostile” towards landlords. 76% are of the view that landlords’ businesses are threatened by the Government’s proposals.

The survey results also indicate the extent to which supply issues will be worsened by the Government’s actions, given the views of those landlords who responded to the survey. Over 90% (93%) of landlords feel that the proposals will result in an increased financial risk for those who let private rented accommodation. Similarly, nearly 85% of landlords feel the proposed reforms will have a negative impact on their cashflow.

These conclusions demonstrate the extent to which the Government must urgently address the sector’s chronic shortage of suitable homes in the private rental market – a point highlighted by the NRLA repeatedly over the course of the past year. 

Other findings from the report reveal that 84% of landlords renting to students are concerned about the Government’s changes to the student rental market. Likewise, the report shows the extent to which police and local authorities need to resolve the issue of anti-social behaviour across the private rented sector.

You can read our report in its entirety by clicking here. If you have any questions in connection with the report, please do contact us at [email protected]