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Should there be stricter rules for tenants to protect landlords' rights?

Journalist: Andreea Dulgheru, Medianett Publishing

ended 26. June 2024

Over the past few months, several reports have highlighted different issues surrounding private tenants. Data analysis by Goodlord revealed tenanct fraud rose by 140% in 2023, while a study by Leaders Romans Group confirmed that landlords are calling for more initiatives to increase tenant's financial responsibility, and create a tenant register to be aware of potential issues up front.

In addition, recent data from SpareRoom showed that tenants are losing over £724m per year in deposit deductions due to failing to adequately clean properties at the end of the tenancy, thus putting pressures on landlords.

We are putting together a feature for BTL Insider to highlight whether landlords and BTL finance experts believe there should be stronger rules and regulation put in place to ensure tenants are held to account. We'd like contributors to answer the following questions:

  1. In your opinion, what are the most common tenant issues landlords are dealing with, and how are they impacting landlords (both financially and mentally)?
  2. How are property damages caused by tenants particularly impacting landlords that have properties with zero deposit schemes?
  3. What specific tenant rules and regulations would you like to see implemented to keep tenants accountable and prevent tenant-landlord issues?
  4. How should landlords handle major issues caused by tenants (property damages, rent arrears etc.) if the tenants are vulnerable people/people with mental or physical disabilities?
  5. What other measures can landlords take to prevent any issues caused by tenants, or ensure tenants are adequately punished for damaging rental properties or causing major issues during their tenancies?

1 responses from the Newspage community

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Kundan Bhaduri
Property Developer and Portfolio Landlord at The Kushman Group
Stricter tenant rules might be necessary, but balance is key. As landlords, we face rent arrears and property damage, financially and mentally draining us. With tenant fraud up 140% in 2023, measures like a tenant register and mandatory renter's insurance are crucial. Zero deposit schemes, while attractive, often leave us vulnerable to property damage without a safety net.

Handling vulnerable tenants requires care. Engaging social services and negotiating payment plans is better than rushing to evict. Preventive strategies like thorough background checks, regular inspections, and tenant education can minimize disputes. Ultimately, fostering a cooperative landlord-tenant relationship benefits us all in the challenging English rental market.