Goadsby – Looking Back at 2015.
Denise Ray, Divisional Lettings Director for the Goadsby Eastern Region has been reflecting on the last year which has seen letting agents and private landlords deal with significant changes in legislation.
“As 2015 drew to a close, we looked back on an increasing amount of legislation which landlords and letting agents have navigated. Whilst there was no direct legislation to regulate letting agents, the Consumer Rights Act focused on transparency where fees & redress were concerned. Trading Standards are making their way through agents to ensure that the regulations are being adhered to and Goadsby feel this is a step in the right direction.
“Landlords had a lot more to deal with in 2015, Sections 8 & 13(2) were both amended. The Deregulation Act enforced in March & October of this year significantly changed the section 21 notice and the rules attached to the service of the notice, along with the use of the introduction of rules which counteract Retaliatory Eviction. Needless to say health and safety also featured with Smoke Detector and Carbon Monoxide regulations which were initially discussed in March and finally became law in October.
“Goadsby has been increasingly busy ensuring they keep their landlords compliant; however, looking forward to 2016 there is more to come. The Immigration Act will come into force across the UK on 1 February 2016 and the likelihood is that many landlords and letting agents will not be prepared. The Housing and Planning Bill will probably be enforced in 2016 and will focus on putting in place further restrictions on landlords and agents.”
Denise concludes:
“We must all begin to get to grips with the fact that the Private Rented Sector will continue to evolve, most definitely for the better. It is crucial to understand the changes and for those who do not understand the bigger picture, being compliant and making sure systems and processes are updated, allows us as a business to offer the best service we can for our clients.”
If you require any further information on regulations contact your local Goadsby office.