Widespread concern across the sector over incoming regulatory changes and the Renters’ Rights Bill, have been highlighted in new research by proptech provider Reapit.
The Property Outlook Report 2025 reveals letting agents, landlords, and sales professionals are bracing themselves for the most challenging compliance environment in decades.
Almost 60% of respondents cited new regulations as their main worry for 2025. These numbers reflect growing unease about the implications of reforms on the home sales and private rented sector (PRS).
The Renters’ Rights Bill, due to become law later this year is causing particular anxiety. When introduced it 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. It also introduces an independent ombudsman for the PRS and significantly increases penalties for non-compliance.
Reapit’s study indicates 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 ten expressed support.
EPC changes are also on the horizon for the PRS, with all properties needing to reach a minimum EPC rating of C for new lets by 2028.
The government has revealed it is looking to address some of the industry’s concerns around the Bill.
In a reply to Reapit’s enquiries, housing minister Matthew Pennycook MP explained that HM Courts and Tribunals Service was looking to address delays in bailiff enforcement affecting landlords by strengthening bailiff recruitment and retention, issuing clearer guidance on rights and responsibilities.
Also launching an automated payment system to streamline debt recovery to free up bailiffs for possession cases.
The government is also working on a new end-to-end digital possession service that will automate warrant requests and fee submissions, with the aim of accelerating the enforcement process by cutting the amount of admin time spent on paperwork.
The government is also considering a faster, alternative mechanism for initial rent assessments, avoiding a tribunal hearing entirely, something Reapit has campaigned for.
The Renters’ Rights Bill, introduced by Labour in September 2024 has progressed slower than anticipated.
Labour, during the General Election campaign said it would end no-fault evictions “immediately” if it won power – that didn’t happen.
