A recent survey of landlords indicates that just over 40% are still undecided about their vote in the upcoming general election on July 4, while nearly half express concerns over a potential change in government.
The survey, conducted by Landbay, polled over 1,500 landlords regarding their voting intentions. Results show that 41% are unsure which party to support. Of the respondents, 31% plan to vote Conservative, 12% for Labour, just over 5% for the Liberal Democrats, and 10% for other parties.
Among the undecided, landlords with portfolios of 4-10 properties constitute the largest group at 35%, while those with 20 or more properties represent a quarter. A significant majority of the undecided landlords (69%) operate within a limited company structure.
The survey further reveals that nearly half of the landlords (48%) are apprehensive about a potential government change. Many respondents describe Labour as “anti-landlord” and view the party’s policies as presenting “too many unknowns.” They note that the policies of the two main parties appear closely aligned in some aspects. Several landlords emphasized that their vote will favour the party committed to alleviating the heavy tax burdens they face.
One landlord remarked, “A Labour government will be traditionally landlord unfriendly. Conservative policies of recent years have also been far too punitive to landlords.” Another echoed this sentiment, stating, “Everyone is anti-landlord. With a lack of affordable housing, we are the scapegoats. They have increased our tax and compliance burden. The left is making it worse.”
John Goodall, founder and CEO of Landbay, commented on the findings: “Now that the election has been called, it is clear that landlords still need further reassurance from Labour about their plans for government and their policy for the sector. The UK needs a strong private rental sector that can support investment and has the ability to scale in order to provide housing to millions of households. We therefore urge Sir Keir Starmer to clarify his plans on housing and how his party will recognize the critical role of landlords and the private rental sector in the UK’s housing mix.”
Rob Stanton, sales and distribution director at Landbay, added: “With a large proportion of landlords still undecided, these findings show the huge opportunity that is out there for all parties to engage with landlords, address their concerns, and give them a reason to vote for their party. Given that much of recent politics from all sides has been anti-landlord, this would be a welcome change. It’s only natural for a potential change in government to raise concerns. We’re seeing this across various industries and sectors as we all try to predict what changes in policy, regulation, and central funding will mean for us. It’s important for landlords to remember that the buy-to-let market has survived countless crises, regime changes, and new governments. Furthermore, it has continued to thrive with lenders ready and willing to lend, and talented brokers able to support landlords in seizing the opportunities that are still out there.”
As the election approaches, the political landscape remains uncertain for landlords, many of whom are looking for clear policies that address their concerns and support the vital role they play in the housing market.