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Landlord News

Stay ahead of regulation, market shifts and portfolio opportunities

Rentals & Sales monitors government guidance, lender updates and property data daily so you can protect yields, stay compliant and move first when the market changes.

Mortgage Strategy21 May 2026

TSB, Paragon Rate Cuts and Accord’s Tougher Income Rules: What London Landlords Need to Know Now

TSB and Paragon have reduced mortgage interest rates on various residential and buy-to-let products, while Accord has raised its minimum income requirement for high loan-to-income borrowers. This article outlines these changes, their impact on landlords, and practical steps for adapting mortgage strategies and compliance.

London landlordsmortgage rate cutsTSB mortgage rates
Medium risk
Mortgage Solutions21 May 2026

Buckinghamshire Building Society Boosts Buy-to-Let and Holiday Let Mortgage Limits: What Landlords Must Do Now

Buckinghamshire Building Society has increased its maximum buy-to-let and holiday let mortgage loan amounts from £500,000 to £750,000 and introduced new fixed-rate products, including options for limited company SPVs and acceptance of expat applicants from Hong Kong (excluding British National Overseas). This article outlines key implications and recommended actions for private landlords and letting agents to optimise financing opportunities and manage costs effectively.

Buckinghamshire Building Societybuy-to-letholiday let
Low risk
Property Industry Eye21 May 2026

What Landlords Need to Know About the £1.5bn Legal Action Against Rightmove

A major legal challenge is underway against Rightmove, alleging excessive fees charged to estate agents and developers. While this case does not directly involve landlords, the outcome could impact property marketing costs and strategies. This article breaks down the case, its relevance to landlords, and practical steps to prepare for potential changes in the lettings landscape.

Rightmovelegal actionproperty portal fees
Medium risk
Property Reporter21 May 2026

£1.4m Bridging Loan Spurs Lease Extension Strategy in St John's Wood: What Landlords Need to Know

A recent £1.46m bridging loan secured by a St John's Wood investor highlights an effective lease extension strategy using Section 42 notices to reduce ground rents and improve refinancing options. This article breaks down practical steps landlords can take to replicate this approach and manage associated risks.

bridging loanlease extensionSection 42 notice
Medium risk
Property Industry Eye21 May 2026

Navigating the Pitfalls of Online Visibility: A Guide for London Landlords

Posting property and professional content online can enhance your letting business and personal brand, but it also exposes you to public criticism and reputational risks. This article explains why careful management of your online presence is essential, outlines practical steps landlords can take to protect their brand, and highlights how Rentals & Sales can support you with compliance and reputation management.

landlordsonline visibilityreputation management
Medium risk
Property Industry Eye21 May 2026

Navigating a Shifting Market: How London Landlords Should Respond to Slowing House Price Growth and Rising Rents

UK house price growth has stalled in early 2026 with London seeing declines, while rental inflation continues modestly. This article unpacks what these trends mean for London landlords, highlighting practical steps to adjust rent pricing, improve tenant relations, and manage risks amid economic uncertainties and mortgage rate volatility.

London landlordshouse price growthrental inflation
Medium risk
Property Industry Eye21 May 2026

What Propertymark’s New ‘Connect’ Platform Means for London Landlords

Propertymark’s launch of ‘Connect’ offers a streamlined way for member agents to share leads and referrals. For London landlords, this development promises enhanced agent collaboration, faster tenant sourcing, and more efficient property management. Understanding how this platform operates can help landlords leverage improved service and optimize their lettings process.

PropertymarkConnect platformLondon landlords
Medium risk
Landlord Today21 May 2026

Grimsby Landlords: How to Navigate the New Selective Licensing Scheme and Avoid Penalties

North East Lincolnshire Council has introduced a mandatory Selective Licensing Scheme for all private rented properties in Grimsby from May 2024. Landlords must apply online via the Home Safe portal, pay licensing fees, and submit key documents. This article explains the scheme, steps landlords need to take, and how to use the council’s one-to-one support sessions to ensure compliance and protect rental income.

Selective LicensingGrimsbyNorth East Lincolnshire Council
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Landlord Today21 May 2026

Five-Year Ban for Overcrowding Rogue Landlord: What London Landlords Must Do Now

A Brent landlord was banned from letting or managing properties for five years following serious overcrowding and safety breaches, highlighting the critical importance of strict compliance with occupancy and safety regulations. This article breaks down the case, its implications, and practical steps London landlords should take immediately to avoid similar penalties.

overcrowdinglandlord banning orderhousing compliance
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Mortgage Strategy20 May 2026

Darlington Building Society Cuts Foreign Currency Mortgage Rates: What London Landlords Need to Know

Darlington Building Society has lowered foreign currency mortgage rates by up to 30 basis points and increased the maximum loan-to-value to 90%, enhancing borrowing conditions for tenants and landlords with overseas income or foreign currency mortgages. This article outlines the changes, their impacts, and actionable steps landlords can take to ensure compliance and maintain strong tenant relations.

Darlington Building Societyforeign currency mortgageLondon landlords
Low risk
Mortgage Solutions20 May 2026

How Drone Surveys Are Speeding Up Property Assessments: What London Landlords Need to Know

Drone technology is transforming property surveys by reducing on-site time and costs, but landlords must navigate Civil Aviation Authority rules and data privacy requirements. This article explains the benefits, compliance obligations, and practical steps for London landlords considering drone-assisted surveys.

drone surveysproperty inspectionsLondon landlords
Medium risk
Mortgage Solutions20 May 2026

Mortgage Lenders Revise Rates and Criteria: What London Landlords Must Do Now

Major lenders NatWest, Barclays, Santander, Darlington Building Society, and Accord Mortgages are adjusting mortgage rates and lending criteria from late May 2026. These changes affect buy-to-let financing costs, product availability, and borrower income requirements. Landlords should revisit mortgage plans and tenant affordability considerations to mitigate medium-level risks.

mortgage rate changesbuy-to-let financingUK landlords
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Landlord Today20 May 2026

Renters Shifting Away from Inner London: What Landlords Need to Know Now

Data from SpareRoom reveals a notable decline in demand for inner London rental rooms, with a 14–35% drop in searches and a 27% rise in average rents since 2020. Meanwhile, outer London boroughs and commuter towns are attracting more interest due to affordability and transport links. Landlords must reassess pricing, portfolio location, and tenant engagement strategies to adapt to these evolving patterns.

London landlordsinner London rentalsrental demand shift
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Landlord Today20 May 2026

Why Aberdeen Is Now a Key Opportunity for London Landlords Eyeing Expansion

Aberdeen’s property market offers a compelling prospect for investors due to affordable housing, rising rents, and strong local incomes linked to the oil and gas sector. This article explains why this matters to London landlords, outlines practical steps to capitalise on the opportunity, and highlights compliance and tax considerations unique to Scotland.

Aberdeen property marketLondon landlordsScottish tax reliefs
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Mortgage Strategy20 May 2026

Planning Applications Hit Record Low: What London Landlords Need to Know

UK planning applications have dropped to their lowest level in over a decade, posing medium-level risks for landlords and property developers. This article outlines why this matters, its practical implications, and steps landlords should take to mitigate delays and manage investment strategies effectively.

planning applicationsLondon landlordsproperty development
Medium risk
Mortgage Strategy20 May 2026

NatWest Raises Maximum Loan-to-Income Ratio to 6.5x for High Earners: What London Landlords Need to Know

NatWest has increased its maximum loan-to-income (LTI) ratio to 6.5 times income for joint mortgage applications where combined income exceeds £150,000. This change affects borrowing power and affordability assessments for landlords seeking to finance rental properties. We explain the practical implications, how different landlord profiles should respond, and concrete steps to adapt your financing and tenant affordability strategies.

NatWestloan-to-income ratioLTI
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Mortgage Strategy20 May 2026

Principality Intermediaries’ Mortgage Rate Changes: What London Landlords Need to Know Now

Principality Intermediaries has updated mortgage rates affecting residential and buy-to-let products, including slight fixed-rate rises and the withdrawal of some two-year BTL products. This article explains what these adjustments mean for London landlords, practical financial and compliance implications, and recommended actions to manage risks effectively.

Principality Intermediariesmortgage rate changesbuy-to-let mortgages
Medium risk
Property Industry Eye20 May 2026

Agent Qualifications: A Strategic Advantage Landlords and Property Teams Should Harness Now

With mandatory agent qualifications on the horizon but not yet enforced, letting agents and landlords stand to gain by proactively supporting professional development. This article explains why acting early mitigates future compliance risks, builds tenant and landlord trust, and strengthens property teams — helping landlords across portfolios navigate upcoming regulation with confidence.

agent qualificationsletting agentslandlord compliance
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Property Industry Eye20 May 2026

New Child & Co Estates Launch: What London Landlords Must Know to Mitigate Risks and Stay Compliant

Mr & Mr Child’s launch of Child & Co Estates in Yorkshire marks a strategic expansion into residential sales, lettings, and property management, offering tenant-find and fully managed services with an emphasis on communication and client care. London landlords should proactively review contracts, confirm compliance with UK housing laws, and adjust operational workflows to mitigate medium-level risks associated with these expanded services.

Child & Co EstatesLondon landlordsproperty management
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Mortgage Solutions19 May 2026

NatWest Raises Loan-to-Income Ratio to 6.5 for High Earners: What London Landlords Need to Know

NatWest has raised its maximum loan-to-income (LTI) ratio to 6.5 for joint applicants earning £150,000 or more, allowing borrowing up to 75% loan-to-value (LTV). This change could impact tenant demand in London’s rental market, especially among higher earners likely to consider buying. This article explains the update, its implications for different landlord profiles, and practical steps landlords can take to adapt their strategies effectively.

NatWestloan-to-income ratioLTI
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Letting Agent Today19 May 2026

AI in Lettings: What 300 Agencies Signing Up to Cortex Means for Landlords

Over 300 UK letting and estate agencies have adopted Cortex, an AI-driven platform automating communication, marketing, sales, and property management. This article explains why this matters to landlords, explores operational and compliance implications, and offers actionable steps to adapt and benefit from this technology shift.

AI in lettingsCortex platformlandlord technology
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Letting Agent Today19 May 2026

Rising Rents Push Tenants Toward Property Guardianship: What London Landlords Need to Know

As rental prices soar across the UK, particularly in London, an increasing number of tenants are turning to property guardianship—short-term occupation of vacant buildings—as a more affordable housing option. While this trend offers landlords opportunities to reduce vacancy, it also involves medium-level risks such as fire safety and legal compliance challenges. London landlords must update safety protocols, clarify agreements, and communicate effectively to manage this emerging dynamic.

property guardianshiplandlordsLondon
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Letting Agent Today19 May 2026

How London Landlords Can Mitigate Risks of Illegal Cannabis Factories in Their Properties

Following Bedfordshire police guidance on identifying illegal cannabis cultivation, London landlords must act swiftly to detect and prevent such activity. This article explains the risks, warning signs, and practical steps landlords and letting agents should implement to safeguard their properties and stay compliant.

illegal cannabis cultivationlandlord risksproperty management
High risk
Letting Agent Today19 May 2026

NRLA Living Launch: What London Landlords Managing Build to Rent Need to Know

Bidwells and the NRLA have launched NRLA Living, a tailored service for large-scale landlords and Build to Rent operators. This initiative provides compliance support, market insights, and operational advice to help landlords navigate complex regulations and optimise portfolio management. London landlords with sizeable or BTR portfolios should act now to integrate these resources into their strategy.

NRLA LivingBuild to RentLondon landlords
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Landlord Today19 May 2026

Landlord Caught in Drug Gang After Google Search: What London Landlords Must Do Now

A landlord involved in a drug gang was uncovered after his internet searches revealed knowledge of cannabis cultivation in his rental properties. This incident highlights the critical need for landlords to tighten tenant vetting, conduct regular inspections, and stay vigilant against illegal activities on their premises. Here’s a practical guide for London landlords to protect their investments and comply with legal responsibilities.

London landlordstenant vettingproperty inspections
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Landlord Today19 May 2026

£65 Million Retrofit Finance from Lloyds: What London Landlords Need to Know

Lloyds Banking Group’s £65 million retrofit finance package to Amplius housing association signals growing financial support for energy efficiency upgrades in rental properties. London landlords should consider how similar funding opportunities and energy improvements can impact compliance, costs, and tenant relations in their portfolios.

Lloyds Banking Groupretrofit financeenergy efficiency
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Landlord Today19 May 2026

Cardiff Landlord Fined £369 After Serious Compliance Failures: Essential Lessons for London Landlords

A Cardiff landlord was fined £369 plus costs for 19 offences including unlicensed renting, unauthorised annex construction, and critical safety hazards, resulting in an Emergency Prohibition Order. This case underscores vital compliance areas for London landlords, including licence verification, planning permission, and rigorous safety maintenance to avoid legal penalties and operational disruptions.

landlord compliancelicensingplanning permission
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Property Industry Eye19 May 2026

NRLA Living Launches to Support Portfolio Landlords Navigating Regulatory Complexity

The National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA), in partnership with Bidwells, has launched NRLA Living, a bespoke service offering market data, regulatory guidance, and operational support targeted at portfolio landlords and Build to Rent operators. This initiative aids landlords in managing compliance challenges amid sector reforms and optimising large-scale property investments.

NRLA Livingportfolio landlordsBuild to Rent
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Mortgage Solutions18 May 2026

Rising Popularity of Variable and Tracker Mortgages: What London Landlords Need to Know

Variable and tracker mortgages have more than doubled in popularity in the last six months, driven by sharply higher fixed rates. This shift means landlords should prepare for potential fluctuations in tenant payment reliability and reassess affordability criteria accordingly. We outline practical steps landlords can take now to manage the risks and adapt their strategies.

variable mortgagestracker mortgagesLondon landlords
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Property Reporter18 May 2026

How to Navigate Swift Buy-to-Let Refinancing: Lessons from a £1.3m Deal Completed in Six Days

Roma Finance recently showcased how a £1.3m buy-to-let refinance across two properties was completed within six days, helping landlords avoid costly penalties on expiring development exit loans. This article breaks down why timely refinancing matters, practical steps landlords can take to replicate such efficiency, and how to prepare for fast, asset-backed buy-to-let refinancing.

buy-to-let refinancingdevelopment exit loanslandlord finance
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Property Industry Eye18 May 2026

UK Landlords Face Highest Property Tax Burden Among Major Economies: Strategic Steps to Mitigate Rising Costs

The UK leads major economies in property tax burden, with taxes constituting 3.7% of GDP and significant increases in business rates forecast for 2026/27. This development presents high risks for landlords, affecting investment decisions, operational costs, and tenant relations. Landlords must proactively review tax changes, adjust financial planning, and engage professional advice to safeguard portfolios amid evolving regulations.

UK property taxbusiness rates 2026London landlords
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Letting Agent Today18 May 2026

Rent Control Demands Rejected by Real Estate:UK—What London Landlords Need to Know Now

The newly formed property investment group Real Estate:UK has opposed calls for rent controls in the private rental sector, warning of possible negative effects on Build To Rent development, employment, and economic growth. While no new regulations have been introduced, London landlords should monitor policy debates closely and prepare operationally for any future changes.

rent controlReal Estate:UKLondon landlords
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Letting Agent Today18 May 2026

Navigating New EPC Rules: Practical Steps for London Landlords Facing Stricter Energy Efficiency Standards

The UK government has extended the deadline for private rental properties to achieve a minimum EPC rating of C to October 2030. However, proposed Energy Independence Bill measures may further tighten these standards, prompting significant concern among landlords. This article distils what these developments mean for private landlords—particularly in London—including practical actions to manage compliance, financial planning, and tenant communications during this evolving regulatory landscape.

EPC regulationsEnergy Performance Certificateprivate rental sector
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Landlord Today18 May 2026

Rightmove Reports Unexpected Rise in Asking Prices: What London Landlords Need to Know

In May 2026, Rightmove recorded a 1.2% increase in average asking prices for UK properties, surpassing typical growth rates. This development, combined with regional disparities and a high volume of price reductions, presents practical challenges and opportunities for London landlords. Understanding these trends is key to optimising pricing strategies, managing vacancy risks, and maintaining competitive lettings portfolios.

Rightmoveasking pricesLondon landlords
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Landlord Today18 May 2026

Landlord Avoids Hefty HMO Fine with Early Payment Discount: What London Landlords Must Know Now

A Gateshead landlord faced a £42,000+ fine for unlicensed HMO breaches but benefited from a 15% penalty discount by paying promptly. With new HMO licensing coming to Gateshead by June 2025, London landlords operating HMOs should urgently reassess compliance to avoid similar risks. This article breaks down key obligations, practical steps for different landlord profiles, and strategic planning to mitigate high penalties and operational disruption.

HMO licensingfire safetylandlord compliance
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Mortgage Strategy15 May 2026

Mortgage Rate Dips Amid Labour Leadership Turmoil: What London Landlords Need to Know

Despite recent political uncertainty over Labour's leadership, average UK mortgage rates have subtly decreased this week, offering potential breathing space for London landlords. Understanding these changes is key to making informed refinancing, rental pricing, and risk management decisions in a dynamic market.

mortgage ratesLabour partyLondon landlords
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Mortgage Strategy15 May 2026

Mortgage Rate Shifts and New Deposit Deals: What London Landlords Need to Know This Week

Several major UK lenders have trimmed mortgage rates by up to 0.36%, and Lloyds Banking Group has launched a new £5,000 deposit mortgage product for first-time buyers. This article explains these changes, their impact on landlords’ borrowing costs, and practical steps to adapt your rental finance strategy accordingly.

mortgage ratesLondon landlordsmortgage refinancing
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Mortgage Solutions15 May 2026

Supporting Care Leavers in Cambridgeshire: What Landlords Need to Know About The Cambridge’s £22.5k Fund

The Cambridge Building Society has introduced a £22,500 fund to help care leavers in Cambridgeshire overcome financial hurdles related to housing and life stability. This article explains why this matters to private landlords, outlines practical implications for tenancy management, and suggests actionable steps to better support this vulnerable tenant group while mitigating risks.

care leaversCambridgeshirelandlords
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Mortgage Solutions15 May 2026

LiveWest Adopts Shared Ownership Code: What London Landlords Need to Know

LiveWest's pioneering adoption of the New Homes Quality Board's Shared Ownership Code marks a shift towards greater transparency and higher service standards in shared ownership homes. London landlords involved with shared ownership properties should understand the implications, review their practices, and prepare for evolving sector-wide expectations.

Shared Ownership CodeLiveWestLondon landlords
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Property Industry Eye15 May 2026

Navigating Change in Prime London Lettings: Practical Steps for Landlords Amid Market Shifts

This article examines recent trends in London's prime lettings market, including rising demand from high-net-worth tenants favouring flexible rentals and increased Anti-Money Laundering (AML) compliance expectations. It provides private landlords with practical guidance to adapt portfolio strategies, enhance compliance, and adjust operations in line with these evolving dynamics.

London lettingsprime London rentalshigh-net-worth tenants
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Property Industry Eye15 May 2026

Why Landlords Should Watch Spicerhaart’s New Partnership Model Closely

Spicerhaart's 'Forge – Empowered by Spicerhaart' partnership model blends estate agent autonomy with established brand support, affecting service quality, compliance, and operational control. London landlords should understand this evolving model to manage risks and optimise their property management strategy.

SpicerhaartForge partnership modelLondon landlords
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Property Industry Eye15 May 2026

Navigating the UK Property Market in May 2026: A Risk-Aware Guide for London Landlords

As the UK property market shows signs of cooling with a slight drop in sales and high withdrawal rates, London landlords must adopt strategic risk mitigation to protect their portfolios. This article examines current market dynamics, compliance obligations, and practical steps landlords should take—focusing on managing agency agreements, realistic pricing, and transaction timelines amid ongoing operational challenges.

UK property marketLondon landlordsagency agreements
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Property Industry Eye15 May 2026

Navigating Three-Month Council Search Delays: What London Landlords Must Do Now

Local Authority search delays of up to three months in England and Wales are significantly extending property transaction times, posing risks for landlords and letting agents. This article explains the causes, practical impacts on sales and lettings, and outlines immediate steps landlords should take to manage these delays effectively.

council search delaysLondon landlordsproperty transaction delays
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Letting Agent Today15 May 2026

Why Landlords Should Welcome Letting Agents’ Formal Training Partnerships

A pioneering partnership between Dawsons Estate Agents and Gower College to deliver Level 2 Letting and Managing Residential Property qualifications highlights a growing trend of formal training in lettings. This article explores what this means for landlords, the practical implications for compliance and service quality, and steps landlords can take to engage with better-trained agents.

letting agentsformal traininglandlord compliance
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Letting Agent Today15 May 2026

Rising Buy-to-Let Repossessions: What London Landlords Need to Know and Do Now

UK Finance reports a 5% increase in buy-to-let repossessions in Q1 2026 compared to Q4 2025, yet overall arrears remain low. Most possessions involve older mortgages, highlighting the need for landlords to review mortgage terms, maintain proactive arrears management, and prepare for possible interest rate volatility. This article breaks down what these figures mean for London landlords and offers concrete steps to safeguard portfolios in the months ahead.

buy-to-letrepossessionsmortgage arrears
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Landlord Today15 May 2026

Why More Large-Scale Landlords Are Remortgaging Now — And What It Means for You

Nearly 40% of landlords, especially those with four or more buy-to-let mortgages, plan to remortgage in the next year. This trend offers both opportunities and risks amid ongoing economic and regulatory shifts. Understanding how to navigate refinancing can help landlords safeguard rental income and optimise their portfolios.

remortgaginglandlordsbuy-to-let
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Landlord Today15 May 2026

NEF Proposes Emergency Brake on Rent Rises: What London Landlords Need to Know Now

The New Economics Foundation has proposed capping rent increases in England to the lower of inflation or 2%, reviving the idea of ‘fair rents’ through local pilot schemes. While not yet law, these proposals reflect growing political pressure to regulate rents amid affordability concerns. London landlords should understand the potential implications, prepare operationally, and engage proactively with tenants and advisors.

rent controlrent increase capNew Economics Foundation
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Landlord News — Page 4 | Rentals & Sales