Landlords are warning that the proposed Renters’ Rights Bill could drive up student rents and reduce housing availability.
The Bill, introduced after the King’s Speech in July 2024, aims to end ‘no-fault’ evictions, introduce a Decent Homes Standard, and increase tenant protections.
However, landlords argue it could have dire consequences for student rentals.
A key concern is the removal of fixed-term tenancies.
NEW FRAMEWORK
Student rentals typically align with academic years, but under the new framework, tenants could leave at any time, leading to prolonged vacancy periods and higher rents.
“For me personally, ending fixed-term tenancies is not great,” one London-based landlord told Propertymark.
“If students leave mid-year, landlords will struggle to ensure properties are available when new students need them.”
Another major issue is restricting advance rent payments. Many international students without UK guarantors rely on upfront payments,but the Bill may prohibit this.
DISCRIMINATION
Sophie Lang, ARLA Propertymark Executive for Cornwall, says: “The changes will inadvertently discriminate against international students.
“They may be forced into more expensive purpose-built student accommodation.”
In cities like Bristol, where housing is already scarce, students are being placed as far away as Newport.
Industry experts fear the Bill could worsen the crisis, discouraging landlords from renting to students and further shrinking supply.
Propertymark is urging the government to retain fixed-term tenancies for students and allow flexibility in advance payments.
They also warn that removing Section 21 without reforming eviction processes could lead to legal bottlenecks.
