What to expect as Parliament returns from recess

With Parliament set to return next week, Public Affairs Officer Joshua Helm-Cowley runs through what could be on the radar for the new Government over the coming months.

After a long summer of heatwaves, the World Cup and a change of Prime Minister, Parliament returns on the 1st September. While the Government has been keeping its cards close to its chest over the summer in terms of new policies, there are several key events coming up.

Budget 2026

Top of the list for landlords is the Budget on 28th October: Andy Burnham’s first Budget as Prime Minister and John Healey’s first as Chancellor.  

Last year we saw a Budget that, according to the OBR, would raise rents and reduce the supply of PRS housing as a result tax rises on income from property that are set to come into force in April next year. We believe the Government cannot hike taxes further on landlords without having a negative impact on the supply of homes, affordability in the sector and economic growth. 

As we get closer to the 28th October, there will inevitably be the usual pre-Budget speculation as media outlets look to get the jump on each other.

However, we will not know for certain what will be included until John Healey stands up and delivers his statement.
In the meantime, we will keep making the case to Government that landlords have faced higher and higher taxes over past decades and that it is about time it implements policy that encourages investment in new and existing homes.

Renters’ Rights – Phase two implementation

Implementation of the Renters’ Rights Act began on the 1st May this year, with the first phase of changes including the loss of the fixed term and abolition of section 21, the so-called no-fault eviction. However, key aspects such as the PRS database and ombudsman scheme are still to be implemented. 

The Government said roll-out of the PRS database will begin late this year on a regional basis. We will inform you as soon as the database is live in your area, as well as working to ensure you are not over-burdened with administration or high charges.

Awaab’s Law Consultation

You will likely be aware that part of the Renters’ Rights Act was the extension of Awaab’s Law to the private rented sector. This law is primarily focussed on ensuring the timely remediation of extreme hazards such as serious damp and mould and is already in place in the social sector. 

The Government has previously said that it will consult on its implementation in the private rented sector, and has been pushed by MPs to begin this process as soon as possible. While not confirmed, we expect the Government to publish the consultation towards the end of the year and we will be responding with your views, ensuring the sector’s concerns are heard.

Join the webinar

Of course, more policy announcements could take place any time, and if they do, we will update you and explain what it means for you, and what the NRLA is doing about it. 

In the meantime, you can register for our Budget webinar to ensure you are up to date on what Budget 2026 means for you here. 

You can also register for our next energy efficiency webinar here and our next webinar on pets in rental homes here.