Propertymark is calling on its members to lobby members of the House of Lords ahead of day two of the Report Stage of the Renters’ Rights Bill, due to take place on Monday 7 July 2025.
The body is backing a key amendment that would allow landlords to request a separate pet damage deposit equivalent to three weeks’ rent.
Known as Amendment 51, the measure has gained support following the UK Government’s decision to remove a previously proposed requirement for tenants to hold pet insurance.
Propertymark believes the proposed deposit would strike a more practical balance between encouraging pet ownership and protecting landlords from potential financial loss.
ACTIVE ENGAGEMENT
The organisation has been actively engaging with peers and policymakers throughout the passage of the Bill, including discussions with Lord Kinnoull earlier this year to promote safeguards for landlords and letting agents.
Timothy Douglas, Head of Policy and Campaigns at Propertymark, says: “As the Renters’ Rights Bill heads towards the final stages in the House of Lords, we urge agents to continue to reach out to their Peers to strengthen our calls as a collective and push for changes that will make the legislation work in practice.
“We will ensure that we continue to closely follow the latest developments and engage with Peers and officials to guarantee the legislation and guidance are fit for purpose.”
SUSTAINED LOBBYING
Propertymark’s recent campaign success during the first Report Stage on Tuesday 1 July is a case in point. A government amendment to remove restrictions on Ground 4A – which would have limited repossession rights to student accommodation of three or more bedrooms – was approved, following sustained lobbying by the organisation.
Baroness Scott of Bybrook (main picture, inset), who led the change, highlighted the realities of the modern student rental market, saying: “Many students, especially postgraduates, international students, and mature students, reside in one-bedroom or two-bedroom properties.
“Without a workable Ground 4A, many would face prolonged uncertainty, making it difficult for them to plan, budget, and study.”
The final day of the Report Stage will take place on Tuesday 15 July, with the Bill due to proceed to its Third Reading in the House of Lords on Monday 21 July.
