Edition #13 · 13 August 2026
Concerns rise over proposed rent controls risking landlord retention
ResolvPoint View
By Mark Donaldson · what this edition means for you
This edition of the ResolvPoint Intelligence Hub brings to light critical developments impacting private landlords and letting agents in the UK. The ongoing debate over proposed rent controls raises serious concerns about a potential exodus of landlords from the market, which could exacerbate the housing crisis and limit options for tenants. Moreover, the Supreme Court's upcoming review of gas safety compliance for Section 21 notices underscores the heightened importance of staying current with legal requirements, as any changes could significantly affect eviction processes.
Additionally, the introduction of new buy to let mortgage rates and funding opportunities for energy efficiency improvements offers landlords the chance to refine their investment strategies, helping manage financial implications in an evolving market. As we navigate these challenges and opportunities, it's vital for us to remain informed and proactive in our approach to property management and regulatory compliance.
Concerns Rise Over Rent Controls Leading to Landlord Exodus
Propertymark has expressed alarm that proposed rent controls may cause many landlords to exit the market. This could exacerbate the existing housing shortage, impacting availability for tenants while failing to address the root issues.
- Who:
- Private landlords
Supreme Court Takes on Section 21 Gas Safety Case
The Supreme Court is set to review a significant appeal regarding gas safety certificates in Section 21 possession claims. This ruling could have major implications for landlords concerning gas safety compliance and the validity of eviction notices.
- Who:
- Private landlords and letting agents
Case Highlights Risks of Unlicensed HMO Conversions
This situation illustrates the risks landlords face from tenants misrepresenting their intentions. A landlord discovered that a tenant he believed to be ideal had turned the property into an unlicensed HMO, exposing the landlord to the risk of hefty fines and legal issues.
- Who:
- Private landlords
RICS Highlights Ongoing Rent Increase Challenges Amid Stock Shortage
The Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) warns that continuous rent rises are likely due to declining property stock, new taxation, and tightening regulations. This trend poses challenges for landlords and agents, affecting affordability and tenant retention.
- Who:
- Private landlords and letting agents
New Buy to Let Mortgage Rates Introduced
Private landlords now have access to refreshed buy to let mortgage options, with fixed rates starting at 3.55% for 75% loan-to-value (LTV) deals. This update is crucial for those considering buying or refinancing properties, suggesting potential financial implications for their investment decisions.
- Who:
- Private landlords
New Funding Opportunity for Energy Efficiency Retrofits
The Warm Homes Loan Scheme aims to facilitate private lending for home energy retrofitting, presenting landlords with potential financial opportunities. Participation as a lender could help enhance property energy efficiency, impacting costs and obligations associated with Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs).
- Who:
- Private landlords, letting agents
Rent Control Concerns Could Reduce Landlord Numbers
A recent report from Propertymark warns that proposed rent controls may lead to a decrease in the number of private landlords. This shift could have significant implications for the rental market, potentially constricting housing availability and affecting rental prices.
- Who:
- Private landlords
Concerns Over Increased Administration Burden for Landlords
Propertymark has raised alarms about a new database for the private rented sector, indicating it may create additional administrative challenges for landlords and agents ahead of its proposed introduction in late 2026. The organisation is urging ministers to limit the requirements for filing and updating to alleviate the potential burden.
- Who:
- Private landlords and letting agents
- By when:
- Late 2026
Norwich City Council Supports Broader Landlord Licensing
Norwich City Council's recent review suggests expanding licensing to smaller Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) and selective licensing in certain wards. This development indicates that landlords should prepare for potential regulatory changes and a forthcoming consultation process.
- Who:
- Private landlords and letting agents in Norwich
- By when:
- TBD (formal consultation yet to be initiated)
Tribunal Ruling Highlights Importance of Achieved Rents
A recent tribunal decision indicates that landlords can bolster their case for rent increases by presenting evidence of achieved rents from completed lettings. This ruling suggests that simply advertizing lower rents may not be sufficient to challenge a proposed increase, thereby shaping rental strategies for landlords.
- Who:
- Private landlords
New Tool for Landlords Amid Renters' Rights Changes
A new pack aimed at enabling landlords to compare rental properties is being tested as part of the changes introduced by the Renters’ Rights Act 2025. This legislation grants tenants enhanced rights to contest rent, significantly impacting how landlords approach pricing and tenancy agreements.
- Who:
- Private landlords
Rogue Tenants Cost Landlords Billions Annually
Landlords are facing significant financial losses due to fraudulent tenants, with recent estimates indicating the total damage runs into the billions. This highlights the importance for landlords and letting agents to stay vigilant and implement stricter tenant verification processes.
- Who:
- Private landlords and letting agents
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