Two out of five property professionals are “pessimistic” or “very pessimistic” about the future of the lettings industry, a survey by Goodlord has found.

The lettings management software provider found that 40 per cent of the agents, landlords and other professionals it questioned had a negative outlook on the future of the sector.

One of the top concerns for 53 per cent of respondents was the potential for the introduction of rent controls, as touted by London Mayor Sadiq Khan.

On top of this, 35 per cent of those surveyed were worried about complying with the Tenant Fees Act and the penalties for breaching the rules.

market”.

Meanwhile, 31 per cent were concerned about “making ends meet” and the same number feared suppliers increasing their prices in 2020. 

Only 17 per cent of respondents highlighted competition from other businesses as a key and just 10 per cent said they were worried about disruption from new business models.

A little over a fifth of agents cited the anti-money laundering rules which came into force at the start of the year as a hurdle.

Others responded that they were concerned about complying with new rules on electrical safety in the private rented sector which are being introduced in July 

Many agents said they were worried about landlords leaving the market due to increased legislation or investors giving up on buy-to-let.