Deep Insight
These blog posts are written to prompt discussion and debate about the role of the Private Rented Sector (PRS) in the UK.
The posts provide more detail on trends which emerge in our analysis of datasets in the Observatory. They also highlight specific topics and comments landlords make in our regular or occasional surveys.
Academics, policy makers and practitioners also make regular contributions to the blog.
Harnessing AI: Understanding sentiment scores in NRLA reporting
The NRLA is using AI-powered sentiment analysis from Wordnerds to better understand landlord feedback. By identifying key themes and emotions in member comments, the tool helps reveal what really matters to landlords and how they feel about key issues.
Insulation, incentives, and awareness: Landlords and the Great British Insulation Scheme
The NRLA’s latest Landlord Eye survey reveals low awareness and mixed experiences of the Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS), with many landlords citing unclear guidance and long delays. While there’s a clear appetite to invest in insulation, landlords need realistic timelines, reliable funding, and clearer guidance if energy efficiency targets are to be met.
Property development & commercial letting – opportunites to diversify?
With the Renters' Rights Bill on the horizon, the NRLA asked landlords to discuss their experiences in property markets other than residential letting. Whilst NRLA members are showing no rush towards the short term letting market, have they followed other routes in trying to balance the changing risk profile of residential letting? Members were asked about (i) property development and (ii) letting commercial property. This blog reviews experiences and barriers to entry.
Tenants see the pitfalls in rental reform
This post reviews some findings on the PRS from independently conducted research across 3,000 tenants. Independent landlords continue to feature strongly in this survey of tenant opinion. Independent landlords feature strongly - and positively - in this tenant survey. Many tenants are unsure about the benefits of the Renbters Rights Bill and many tenants are concerned about the inpact of the Bill on housing supply and rent levels
Renters' Rights Bill and rent in advance
A proposal to ban rent in advance under the Renters’ Rights Bill risks misunderstanding its role in the private rented sector. NRLA analysis shows that most landlords request only one month’s rent upfront, with larger sums often driven by tenant choice or practical circumstances. A blanket ban could restrict access for renters who benefit from this flexibility.
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