Labour peer hails Renters’ Rights Act at landlord conference

A Labour peer has praised the Renters’ Rights Act, claiming it will deliver “a modern system that works for both parties.”

In a pre-recorded message addressing delegates at the National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA) conference, Baroness Taylor of Stevenage thanked the landlord association for its work in helping to shape the Act.

The NRLA conference hosted more than 900 attendees throughout the day, featuring property experts from across the country.

The vast majority of landlords already provide good-quality homes

The NRLA writes on its website: “Baroness Taylor told the conference that the passing of the Renters’ Rights Act into law marks a crucial moment for the private rented sector, describing it as a truly transformational reform.”

Baroness Taylor also acknowledged the important role that good landlords play in the private rented sector. She has previously said that responsible landlords have nothing to fear from the reforms.

She told the conference: “The vast majority of landlords already provide good-quality homes and services, and the Act will deliver a modern system that works for both parties, ensuring landlords adapt to the removal of Section 21 while enabling them to regain possession of their properties if and when necessary.”

She also reaffirmed the government’s position that it does not support rent controls.

Baroness Taylor has previously said on rent controls: “Heavy-handed rent controls tend to mean higher rents at the start of a tenancy, and they can make it much harder for prospective tenants to find a home. They also encourage the growth of unregulated sub-letting, which can leave the most vulnerable tenants very exposed to higher costs and minimal protections.

“Those rent controls always come at a cost, often in reduced investment in housing supply and quality standards.”

Delighted to hear from Baroness Taylor

Baroness Taylor of Stevenage thanked the NRLA for its hard work, and the NRLA thanked its members for attending.

Ben Beadle, chief executive of the National Residential Landlords Association, said: “The NRLA conference has proven, once again, to be the highlight of the property year. It was a pleasure to meet with so many of our excellent NRLA members at the Exhibition Centre Liverpool.

“We were delighted to hear Baroness Taylor acknowledge the NRLA’s hard work in ensuring the Renters’ Rights Act works for landlords and tenants alike.”