Last year we had our fair share of disruption, with the implementation of the Tenant Fee Ban, execution of the council’s new additional licensing zone and then the dreaded topic of Brexit causing market uncertainty.
After a topsy-turvey 2019 it feels like things have settled down a bit. You’ll also be pleased to hear we are expecting the recent strong demand for rental properties to continue into 2020. We have also seen a more general bounce in the housing market, so at present it’s all positive vibes for 2020.
Last year we had our fair share of disruption, with the implementation of the Tenant Fee Ban, execution of the council’s new additional licensing zone and then the dreaded topic of Brexit causing market uncertainty.
After a topsy-turvey 2019 it feels like things have settled down a bit. You’ll also be pleased to hear we are expecting the recent strong demand for rental properties to continue into 2020. We have also seen a more general bounce in the housing market, so at present it’s all positive vibes for 2020.
Potential changes to Section 21
Lettings legislation that is a hot topic in 2020 is the potential abolition Section 21. Our current understanding is the Government is still in talks regarding Section 21 changes, but the signs are that the new Conservative Government are still in favour of scrapping it. However, if it is indeed approved, then we are informed that due to the legislative timetable it’s implementation will still be a long way off. We are also assured that Section 8 will be overhauled at the same time (which we feel is much needed!).
Electrical Safety Standard
As we have been expecting, the Government have now confirmed that new Electrical Safety Standards will apply to the Private Rented Sector in 2020. These will apply to new tenancies from 1st July 2020, and existing tenancies from 1st April 2021. This new legislation will require landlords to ensure that all electrical installations in their rental properties are tested by a qualified person, every five years.
The Letting Game has a dedicated Compliance and Licensing department, so we can advise further on this, should you need. We can also arrange these tests to be carried out on your behalf.
A bright 2020 expected for TLG
After 2019 was so heavily disrupted by the Tenant Fee Ban, 2020 is expected to be a year of growth for The Letting Game. Our team has already expanded this year, with the additions of two new Property Managers, taking the department to six and the team to 19. We are also expanding our office space in our Henleaze Head Office this April.
We have just refreshed The Letting Game brand logo – look out for our new boards around the city! This also included a new website, which you can check out here www.thelettinggame.co.uk
We look forward to continuing to work with you in 2020 and wish you a successful year. Please get in touch with any lettings related requirements you have and don’t forget our sister company ‘Boardwalk’ are able to help on the sales side www.boardwalkpropertyco.com
Jack Head, Managing Director