Edition #1 · 4 August 2026
12 housing updates you should know about
The ResolvPoint View
By Mark Donaldson · what this edition means for you
This week, we find ourselves navigating a swiftly changing landscape in the rental market, marked by a series of regulatory developments that will require us to adapt our approaches. From proposed reforms to tenant deposit handling and the introduction of new licensing fees, landlords and letting agents must stay informed and proactive in refining our strategies. The implications of High Court rulings and the shift in possession trends further complicate our responsibilities but also present opportunities to enhance our practices.
As the government considers a new rental bill and calls for rent regulation gain traction, it's essential for us to closely monitor these trends, ensuring we are prepared for upcoming changes that could significantly impact our operations. Each story serves as a reminder that adaptability and vigilance are essential as we navigate this evolving regulatory environment together.
Government Plans Deposit Reform Could Impact Landlords
The UK government is contemplating reforms to tenant deposit handling, potentially eliminating insurance-backed schemes. This change could compel landlords to reassess their deposit management strategies and understand related risks and options in anticipation of new regulations.
- Who:
- Private landlords
High Court Upholds Thurrock's Licensing Scheme
The High Court has confirmed that Thurrock council can proceed with its Selective Licensing Scheme, dismissing further challenges. This ruling impacts local landlords, who will need to comply with the new licensing requirements, increasing their obligations and potential costs.
- Who:
- Private landlords in Thurrock
- By when:
- Licensing scheme implementation underway; no specific deadline mentioned.
Possession Trends Shift with Section 21 Changes
Recent data indicates that the ending of Section 21 has already begun to influence possession cases in the rental market. Landlords and letting agents must adapt to these new circumstances, as traditional eviction routes may be affected by ongoing legislative changes.
- Who:
- Private landlords, letting agents
Letting Agents to Manage PRS Database Entries for Landlords
Matthew Pennycook has announced that letting agents will be permitted to file entries on the Private Rented Sector Database for landlords. This development is crucial as it clarifies responsibilities and processes ahead of the database's launch.
- Who:
- Letting agents, Private landlords
- By when:
- New system launches later this year
Preston Proposes £1,050 Licensing Fee for Landlords
Preston City Council is consulting on a new selective licensing scheme that would impose a £1,050 fee per property in designated wards. Landlords should respond to the consultation before a decision is made by ministers, as this could impact their operational costs and compliance requirements.
- Who:
- Private landlords
- By when:
- Consultation responses due before ministerial decision
New Rental Bill Signals Major Reforms for Landlords
Propertymark is working with the government to shape a new rental Bill that aims to reform the rental sector. This could lead to significant changes in regulations affecting private landlords and their operational requirements in the near future.
- Who:
- Private landlords and letting agents
Letting Agent Faces Fraud Charges of £50,000
A letting agent has admitted to committing fraud amounting to £50,000 and is scheduled for sentencing on September 1. This incident highlights the potential risks associated with fraud in the letting industry and underscores the importance of due diligence for landlords and agents alike.
- Who:
- Letting agents
- By when:
- 1 September 2023
Calls for Rent Regulation by Labour Gains Traction
A prominent think tank is advocating for the Labour government to implement rent controls tailored to local housing markets. Recent polling indicates considerable public support for government intervention in private rent regulation, making it a significant topic for landlords and letting agents to monitor closely.
- Who:
- Private landlords, Letting agents
Ombudsman Highlights Learnings from Pest Infestation Cases
The Housing Ombudsman has released insights from two cases involving pest infestations, emphasizing important lessons for landlords. This guidance may shape how landlords manage pest issues and improve their handling of tenant complaints.
- Who:
- Private landlords, Letting agents
Key Insights from Awaab’s Law on Roof Leak Issues
The Housing Ombudsman has released a report highlighting lessons from cases under Awaab's Law, particularly focusing on the rising issue of roof leaks. This development emphasizes the need for landlords and agents to address maintenance and damp issues proactively to avoid potential disputes and ensure tenant safety.
- Who:
- Private landlords, letting agents
Uncertainty Over New High Value Council Tax Surcharge for Landlords
Landlords are left uncertain about their responsibilities regarding a proposed High Value Council Tax Surcharge. Propertymark is urging for clearer guidelines on who will be liable for the surcharge, emphasizing the potential impact on landlords and housing supply.
- Who:
- Private landlords
New Energy Efficiency Guide Released for Landlords
A newly issued guide focuses on energy efficiency guidelines for landlords, aimed at promoting sustainability within rental properties. This resource, developed by the Future Homes Hub and Good Homes Alliance, is designed to help landlords enhance the energy performance of their buildings, potentially influencing marketability and compliance with upcoming regulations.
- Who:
- Private landlords