A Conservative MP has voiced fresh concerns that the new Renters’ Rights Bill (RRB) could prompt landlords to exit the market, reducing the supply of much-needed private rental housing.
Rebecca Smith, MP for South West Devon, highlighted the issue during a debate in the House of Commons, sharing the case of a constituent with 89 properties who is planning to sell his portfolio. Smith warned that this could drive tenants into the already strained temporary accommodation system.
Speaking in the Commons, Smith said, “The fact that the homes are not necessarily always fit to live in is almost the least of the problems because … if there are no homes to live in, the people do not have anywhere to be.”
Labour MP Markus Campbell-Savours (Penrith and Solway) interjected, asking, “What do you think happens to properties when landlords remove themselves from the sector?”
Smith responded by recounting her constituent’s situation: “One of my constituents has recently written to me to say that he is, very sadly, after being a landlord to the same tenants for 25 years, selling his entire portfolio of 89 properties.”
The Conservative backbencher acknowledged that there are potential solutions but expressed frustration over the lack of progress. She referenced her experience as a former Cabinet member in Plymouth, where local authorities and housing organizations had previously collaborated to purchase properties from Annington Homes for social housing.
“There are some options,” Smith said, “however, when my constituent approached the council, there has been no movement so far.”
Her remarks come amid growing debate over the impact of the RRB, with critics warning it may exacerbate the housing shortage by driving landlords out of the private rental market.