Edition #18 · 18 August 2026
Rising compliance costs due to anti-money laundering changes
ResolvPoint View
By Mark Donaldson · what this edition means for you
In this edition, we delve into rising compliance costs and regulatory scrutiny affecting private landlords and letting agents. Heightened Anti-Money Laundering regulations now require us to reassess our operational practices to stay compliant and avoid costly penalties. Councils are also considering significant increases to fines for non-compliance, emphasising the need for vigilance in meeting operational standards.
Additionally, the ongoing rise in rental prices, particularly in London, signals growing demand in the rental market. This trend encourages us to adapt our strategies to align with tenant expectations and market conditions. As we navigate these changes, it is crucial to remain informed and proactive in our approaches to maximise our opportunities and minimise risks.
Rising Compliance Costs Amid Anti-Money Laundering Changes
Letting agents face significant compliance costs due to heightened Anti-Money Laundering regulations, which are moving from secondary considerations to central operational tasks. This shift necessitates a review of current practices to avoid potential penalties, making it crucial for landlords to understand the implications for their operations.
- Who:
- Letting agents and private landlords
Council Plans Significant Fine Increase for Landlords
A local council is considering raising fines for landlords by 50%, particularly for those with aggravating factors like prior non-compliance or prolonged breaches. This proposed policy change highlights the importance for private landlords to be aware of potential increased penalties.
- Who:
- Private landlords
- By when:
- Consultation period unspecified; action may be immediate if policy adopts.
Council Unveils Crackdown on Private Landlords
A council has initiated a targeted approach to enforce compliance among landlords, stressing support for responsible practices. This development may reshape expectations for landlords' operational standards and compliance efforts to avoid penalties.
- Who:
- Private landlords, Letting agents
Proposed Regulation Increases Scrutiny on Letting Agents
Ministers are considering enhanced regulations for property agents, particularly regarding verification checks. This would directly impact how letting agents operate and interact with landlords, necessitating adaptations in compliance practices.
- Who:
- Letting agents
Rising Demand for Rentals Amidst Right to Buy Expansion
Recent data indicates a potential increase in private rental demand due to a surge in the Right to Buy programme. This shift could influence landlord strategies and market dynamics, necessitating awareness of changing tenant needs and market conditions.
- Who:
- Private landlords
Lending Growth Indicates Cautious Landlord Buying Trends
The OSB Group reported a 10% increase in lending, reaching £2.3 billion in the first half of 2026, predominantly driven by remortgaging and effective portfolio management. Despite this growth, new property purchases among landlords remain cautious and selective, suggesting a careful approach to investment in the current market.
- Who:
- Private landlords
Mixed Views on Tenancy Deposit Transfer Process
A landlord has expressed frustration over the inability to deregister a tenancy deposit while selling a rental property. This criticism highlights potential complexities in the deposit transfer system, which could impact landlords during property transactions.
- Who:
- Private landlords
Rental Prices Rise Across UK, Led by London
Rental prices in the UK increased by 1.2% in July, with London experiencing the most significant growth. This trend indicates a continuing upward trajectory in the rental market, which landlords should monitor closely for potential impacts on their portfolios and tenant demand.
- Who:
- Private landlords, letting agents
Court Ruling May Impact Rent Collection Strategies
A recent Tribunal decision regarding a residential property outlines factors that could affect rent collection processes for landlords. While it doesn't introduce new legislation, the ruling may influence how landlords approach disputes and tenant interactions moving forward.
- Who:
- Private landlords and letting agents
New Flood Risk Assessment Impacting UK Housing Sector
A recent national assessment has outlined the current and projected risks associated with flooding and coastal erosion in England. This information may influence landlord decisions regarding property investments and management strategies in flood-prone areas.
- Who:
- Private landlords, letting agents
Landlords Underreport Pet Requests Despite Rising Demand
A significant number of landlords have not received formal pet requests from tenants since new rights were introduced in May. This suggests a gap between tenant interest in having pets and the formal processes in place, which could affect future rental agreements and landlord policies.
- Who:
- Private landlords
Key Ruling in Development Dispute Impacts Future Property Agreements
A recent court ruling in the case of Hawridge Strategic Land Limited v Millen Homes Limited has potential implications for property developers and agreements. This decision highlights how contractual disputes may be navigated, shaping future negotiations and partnerships in the housing market.
- Who:
- Property developers and private landlords
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