Articles by Eleanor Bateman
In case you missed it: Members’ webinar unpacks Renters’ Rights Bill
If you missed our first webinar on the Renters’ Rights Bill and its potential impact on the private rented sector, don’t worry – you can catch up by watching the recording.
Your long read: Does commonhold make common sense?
With further leasehold reform on the horizon, Senior Public Affairs Officer, Eleanor Bateman, takes a closer look at commonhold – the Government’s preferred tenure for leasehold properties – to see whether it offers a better alternative, and what the future of property ownership might look like.
Hardship tests: Separating substance from speculation
Recent claims that the Government plans to introduce ‘French-style’ hardship tests to the possession process have, understandably, raised concerns within the landlord community. But how reliable are these reports? Senior public affairs officer, Eleanor Bateman, considers the rumours.
From rental reform to housing emergency: Scotland’s experience
In May, the Scottish Government declared a national housing emergency, swiftly attributing the crisis to UK Government budget cuts, the Local Housing Allowance (LHA) rate freeze and Brexit-related labour shortages. However, the roots of the problem may lie closer to home. Eleanor Bateman explains more.
Rent Smart Wales audit: Electrical safety and navigating the requirements
Rent Smart Wales is undertaking a compliance audit and has identified some electrical safety pitfalls that can be easy to overlook. The Renting Homes (Wales) Act (RHW) requires landlords in Wales to undertake electrical safety testing to ensure properties are safe to rent. NRLA Senior Campaigns Officer Ellie Bateman explains more about the audit and top tips to navigate electrical safety requirements as a landlord in Wales.
A second bite at leasehold reform
Despite the Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024 receiving Royal Assent just two months ago, further reforms are back on the table following an announcement in the King's Speech this week.
Shaping the PRS in Wales - can you help?
There is still time to contribute to the Welsh Government's evaluation of Rent Smart Wales, the body governing registration and licensing in the Welsh private rented sector, with the NRLA to join a working group on the issue next week.
Cross-party group considers the future of Local Housing Allowance
The NRLA joined a meeting of the Cross-Party Group (CPG) on rented housing and leasehold properties last week to discuss Local Housing Allowance (LHA) and how it can best support households in Wales.
Land Transaction Tax reform could revive the private rented sector in Wales
Amidst a housing emergency, with demand for private rented homes outstripping supply and nearly 12,000 individuals across Wales in temporary accommodation, the NRLA has called pro-growth measures to boost the supply of private rented homes, including reform of Land Transaction Tax (LTT).
The leasehold limbo lingers on
Building safety took centre stage this week during the debate on the Leasehold and Freehold Reform Bill, with little light at the end of the tunnel for leaseholders facing huge bills to fix defects. Senior Public Affairs Officer Eleanor Bateman explains more.