As professionals in the property market, we’re increasingly concerned about the mounting pressures on the private rental sector (PRS). The current climate is driving us towards a ‘perfect storm’ that could lead to a significant exodus of landlords from the market, further worsening the already critical shortage of rental properties.
One of the primary challenges is the upcoming Renters’ Reform Bill, which aims to eliminate Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions. Coupled with a buoyant sales market and rising compliance costs, many landlords are questioning whether continuing to let their properties is worth the risk. With property values climbing and the regulatory landscape becoming more complex, it’s no surprise that some are considering cashing in and investing elsewhere.
“When will government, tenants and the general public at large wake up to the fact that landlords are not a public service? If the risk outweighs the reward, landlords will invest elsewhere, and who could blame them?” Simon Wall FRICS of Stephanie Macnab Estate Agents asks. It’s a fair question, and one that reflects the sentiment we’re hearing from many landlords who are feeling increasingly disillusioned with the market.
If too many landlords decide to leave, the result will be a shrinking pool of rental properties, driving up rents and making it even harder for tenants to find affordable homes. This is precisely the outcome we fear—one where the very reforms intended to help tenants end up making things worse by reducing supply and inflating costs.
We understand the need for reforms to provide tenants with greater security, but it’s critical that these changes strike a balance. Protecting tenants must not come at the expense of driving landlords out of the market. Without thoughtful implementation and support for landlords, we risk creating a long-term crisis that benefits no one.
These aren’t abstract concerns—they’re real issues raised by landlords and tenants alike. We hope that as these changes are debated, policymakers will engage with industry professionals to craft a solution that works for both sides, avoiding further damage to an already fragile sector.