top of page
Writer's pictureAdmin

How are landlords reacting to proposed legislative changes? The evidence is mixed

In the context of upcoming legislative change to the private rented sector, there has been a great deal of press coverage predicting an exodus of landlords. However, research on landlords’ reactions to the proposed legislative changes reveals a more complicated and sometimes contradictory picture.


A recent report by Simply Business found that 75% of landlords are worried about the future of the private rented sector, with 69% stating that constantly changing and confusing legislation is their biggest challenge. Furthermore, 37% view increased regulation of the market, such as the Renters’ Rights Bill, as a major threat.


However, despite these concerns, the report found that 62% of landlords aren’t looking to sell in the next 12 months, and the same percentage feel letting a property is still a worthwhile investment. 


The TDS Charitable Foundation’s own Voice of the Landlord survey, echoed this complexity.  For example, nearly a quarter of landlords stated that they are dissatisfied overall, and 55% of this group blamed proposed regulatory changes, such as the Renters’ (Reform) Bill (in Parliament at the time of data collection in April-May 2024). A quarter said they were looking to sell their properties, and dissatisfied landlords were more likely to have this intention (53%).


However, when looking at actual portfolio changes in the past 12 months, only 13% sold properties. Surprisingly, 19% of landlords expanded their portfolios during this same period, even as the Bill advanced through Parliament.


In conclusion, research on landlords’ reactions to proposed legislative changes suggests a more nuanced, and sometimes contradictory, picture than what is often presented. While many landlords do feel apprehensive about the new regulations, the evidence suggests that fears of a landlord exodus may be overstated.

© 2022 The Dispute Service Limited, All Rights Reserved.

The Dispute Service Limited is a company registered in England and Wales with number 4851694. Registered Office Address: West Wing, First Floor, The Maylands Building, 200 Maylands Avenue, Hemel Hempstead, HP2 7TG.

Privacy Policy 

Social ICON - TDS.png
bottom of page