Landlords will need written agreements for all tenancies

Landlords will have to provide written agreements for all tenancies under plans put forward by the Government.

Ministers say the agreements will “strengthen the hand of tenants” in the event of a dispute.

There will also be a new National Landlords Register which tenants can use to make basic checks when choosing accommodation. The register will provide information about how well landlords maintain their properties and deal with problems. 

The register will also make it easier for councils to identify landlords and enforce regulations.

Tenants will be able to use a Government hotline to get free advice if they are experiencing difficulties with their landlord. This is expected to be available by the summer.

Tenancy rights will be extended to 150,000 people living in shared homes on a short term let basis. This will mainly help students and seasonal workers.

There will also be stricter regulation of managing and letting agents. Ministers hope this will help tackle rogue agents who damage the reputation of the private rented sector.

New legislation will be introduced to eliminate bad practices such as wrongful eviction and to raise general standards.

The measures have been put forward in a document entitled The Private Rented Sector: Professionalism and Quality: consultation responses and next steps. The intention is to ensure that tenants are given greater legal protection and more confidence about their rights.

Ministers now plan to work with landlord and tenant groups to finalise the proposals. The forthcoming General Election may change things, of course, but currently the Government intends to introduce legislation to create the National Landlords Register and implement the stricter regulations.

The proposed measures are part of a continuing effort to provide more control over the private rented sector. A number of other regulations have been introduced over the last few years including tenancy deposit protection schemes, licensing for houses in multiple occupation and energy performance certificates.