Propertymark members have sent over 250 letters and emails to Peers ahead of the Lords’ Committee Stage of the Renters’ Rights Bill, proposing key amendments. The trade body has actively lobbied throughout the Bill’s passage, raising concerns about the removal of fixed-term tenancies, court capacity, rent in advance restrictions, short-term let regulation, and the deposit cap for renting with pets.

While Propertymark acknowledges the government’s aim to protect renters, it warns that overly restrictive regulations could reduce rental supply and drive up prices. The House of Lords has tabled amendments allowing fixed-term tenancies by mutual agreement, revising repossession grounds for student properties, and maintaining Section 21 notices for small landlords. Concerns over court capacity remain, with calls for the government to outline steps to manage increased caseloads.

Propertymark has also urged an extension of the deposit cap to cover pet-related damages, supporting a Lords amendment proposing a three-week rent equivalent pet deposit. Head of policy, Timothy Douglas, emphasised the need for evidence-based legislation that balances tenant rights with the interests of landlords and agents.