The property industry will need at least six months to introduce new tenancy agreements once the Renters’ Rights Bill becomes law, according to landlord leaders.

The NRLA has reacted to a consultation on the tenant statements by insisting that it will be impossible for estate agents to respond in less time.

Agents will need to update their IT systems and train staff, as well as ensure landlords and tenants understand the new rules, NRLA says.

Engaging

Housing minister Matthew Pennycook announced a consultation on the new tenancy agreements in Parliament.

“The Renters’ Rights Bill will require private rented sector landlords in England to provide new tenants with a written statement of terms, which in practice will usually be provided via a written tenancy agreement,” he said.

“Regulations will be made before the reforms are commenced, setting out what this written information must include. The Department is currently engaging with interested parties to seek their views on this information”.

Until this mandatory information is ready, it’s impossible for the sector to prepare new tenancies.”

In response, James Wood, Head of Policy for the NRLA, told The Neg: “Once the Renters’ Rights Bill is agreed by Parliament, ministers will need to draft regulations to implement it.

“Until this mandatory information is ready, it’s impossible for the sector to prepare new tenancies, update their IT systems, or fully train staff ahead of the Bill,” he says.

“The sector will need a minimum of six months once regulations are passed to ensure a smooth transition to the system replacing Section 21.”

Reduce disputes

Timothy Douglas, Head of Policy and Campaigns at Propertymark, says: “Propertymark has long advocated for it to be a legal requirement for a written tenancy agreement and a compulsory property inventory when renting as they play an important role in supporting landlords, tenants and agents to understand their rights and responsibilities and help reduce disputes.”

More on the Renters’ Rights Bill