Agents are bracing themselves for the already-complicated private rental sector to become still more complex – and some fear the red tape could stifle the industry.
The Property Outlook Report 2025 has been written by industry supplier Reapit and reveals that over-regulation tops the list of agents’ concerns.
Nearly 60% of respondents cited new regulations as their primary worry for 2025. These figures reflect growing unease about the implications of reforms set to reshape both the sales and the private rented sector.
Among the most urgent issues agents face is the Renters’ Rights Bill, which is due to become law next month.
The legislation will abolish fixed-term assured shorthold tenancies and Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions, while introducing more stringent repair obligations, rent challenge rights for tenants and tighter compliance deadlines. The Bill also introduces an independent ombudsman for the PRS and significantly increases penalties for non-compliance.
Reapit’s research shows that more than 61% of property professionals surveyed said they were dissatisfied with the draft proposals first introduced in 2024, while fewer than one in 10 expressed support. EPC changes are also on the horizon for the PRS, with all properties needing to reach a minimum EPC C for new lets by 2028.
However, Reapit says it’s won reassurance from the government that it will address some of the industry’s concerns around the Renters’ Rights Bill.
In a reply to Reapit’s enquiries, Housing Minister Matthew Pennycook says much-feared court delays may be offset by employing more bailiffs, issuing clearer guidance on rights and responsibilities, and launching an automated payment system to streamline debt recovery.
To prepare for potentially increased demand across the First-tier Tribunals, work is underway to expand capacity within the Tribunal Property Chamber. A new power has also been introduced, allowing the government to backdate rent increases following a Tribunal determination to prevent the system from becoming overwhelmed.
Pennycook claims the government is also considering a faster, alternative mechanism for initial rent assessments, avoiding a tribunal hearing entirely, something Reapit has campaigned for. And a national communications campaign will also be launched to raise awareness of the Renters’ Rights Bill and guide tenants, landlords and agents to relevant support and information.
Dr Neil Cobbold, commercial director at Reapit UKI, says the way agents approach new regulations is critical: “It’s understandable agents are concerned about upcoming regulation, change is on the horizon and for the lettings sector it’s the biggest in 30 years. … Agencies that act early to understand their new obligations and invest in tools that support compliance will be best positioned to ride the coming wave of reform.”
A copy of the Reapit Property Outlook Report can be downloaded here.
