Leading agents are demanding clarity about tenants’ rights to challenge rent rises as part of the Renters Rights Act.
Under the act private tenants to challenge above-market rent rises via the First-tier Tribunal system.
But Propertymark wants the government to make the situation clearer.
Greg Tsuman, Past President of ARLA Propertymark, says: “We need much greater clarity around the tribunal process, including clearer guidance, simpler forms and practical advice for tenants who want to challenge a rent increase before it takes effect.
“There also needs to be a better understanding of the evidence tribunals consider.
“They are looking at achieved rents rather than simply advertised asking rents, and that distinction is important for both landlords and tenants.
“The tribunal helpline needs suitably qualified staff who can give basic but accurate and practical legal guidance.
“Now, callers are met with a recording making clear that anything discussed is not legal advice, which does little to inspire confidence in the support being provided.
“With constrained supply likely to mean tenants stay in properties for longer, maintaining a positive relationship between landlord and tenant is becoming even more important.”
Rent increases are now governed and restricted by Section 13 of the Renters Rights Act.
Kim Lidbury, ARLA Propertymark President, advised agents to begin having conversations with tenants, especially if they are having financial issues.
She adds: “A tenant is sometimes using a Section 13 notice as an opportunity to raise concerns for other reasons outside of rent increases, or they are not telling us about their circumstances.
“Because they are not having those conversations with us, they have gone straight to the tribunal stage, which can make things more difficult.
“Most landlords have costs and responsibilities, and it is a good outcome for them and the tenant if they stay at a property for some time.”
Propertymark has issued guidance about the Act on its website: Renters’ Rights Act | Propertymark.
