The National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA) has outlined “three key asks” for the new government aimed at protecting and expanding the private rented sector.
The proposals include “Rental reform that works for all,” a long-term stable housing strategy, and provision of homes where they are most needed.
In detailing these priorities on its website, the NRLA emphasizes:
- Rental Reform That Works for All: The association supports removing Section 21, a policy long backed by both Conservatives and Labour, but insists on the necessity of workable possession grounds and a realistic implementation timeframe. Additionally, the NRLA calls for consistent housing standards across all tenures and uniform enforcement throughout England and Wales.
- A Long-Term Stable Housing Strategy: Beyond ambitious house-building promises, the NRLA advocates for a comprehensive 10-year housing strategy with clear, achievable outcomes. This strategy should support the creation of homes across all tenures to meet rising demand. It should also bolster local authorities’ enforcement capabilities and ensure properly funded court services to support both landlords and tenants.
- Provision of Homes Where They Are Needed: The private rented sector (PRS) is crucial for new households, whether for young adults leaving home, new families moving to the UK, or couples starting out together. It also plays a vital role in labour mobility. With the population expected to grow by 10% in the next decade, particularly in towns and cities with strong job markets, the NRLA predicts an increasing demand for rental homes.
The NRLA concludes that significant investment is essential for the sector to meet this demand. Consequently, it is urging the government to remove stamp duty on additional homes and reinstate mortgage interest relief to stimulate growth.