The renters reform bill in short is a one of its biggest reforms in the UK housing market for decades. For someone relocating internationally, some of the key takeaways are:
1.More tenant security → Less risk of arbitrary eviction and more stable tenure.
2.Greater transparency and rights → Better visibility of landlord/agent credentials; ability to challenge unreasonable rent rises or poor property standards.
3. Still need to be proactive → Even with the reforms, you’ll still face referencing, budget constraints, and competition (especially in major cities). Prepare your documents, proof of income, and be ready to negotiate early.
4. Make informed choices → Choose a landlord/agency that is transparent and experienced with overseas tenants (who may have less UK credit/rental history). Inspect the property condition carefully.
5. Budget wisely → While reforms may reduce some upfront costs (less advance rent in some cases), rental markets remain competitive. Factor in relocation costs, deposit, utilities, furnishing (as you might be new to the UK).
6.Check contract start date and transitional rules → If you move right when reforms are kicking in (or just before), check whether your tenancy falls under old or new rules, and what rights you’ll have.
One key challenge that the bill is presenting also is a severe shortage in rental properties in the suburban areas. This is largely due to your smaller landlords, struggling with all the regulatory changes and new challenges ending up in their decision to sell.
Unfortunately, as relocation agents for so long this is a trend we have seen getting worse over the lat two years but a challenge we always welcome when assisting our clients in their move to the UK.
For further insight on our service or challenges when moving to the UK, please feel free to contact us for a free consultation call.
