Rogue landlords and letting agents will be banned from April 2018

In April 2018, the government will introduce banning orders for landlords and letting agents barring those who commit offences from working in the lettings industry by placing their details in a database of blacklisted landlords and agents.

The updated legislation will result in agents and landlords who are convicted of a banning order offence being barred from working in the lettings market whether as a landlord, letting agent or working as part of a property management team.

Some of the most common banning order offences are:

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Unlawful eviction and harassment of occupierViolence for securing entryFailing to comply with an improvement noticeOffences in relation to licensing HMOsFire Safety and Gas Safety offencesOffence of harassment and stalkingTheft, Burglary, Blackmail and Handling stolen goods

It is not yet clear whether this database will be accessible to the public and, there may be some variations and additions before the regulations are finalised and approved by the Government.

Michael Cook, Lettings Managing Director at Romans comments, “We are delighted to see the government taking action on this issue. Rogue landlords and agents give the whole lettings industry a bad name and cast a negative public perception across the industry. I firmly believe that this will better protect tenants’ rights as well the wider lettings industry.

“With more and more legislation coming into effect in the lettings industry from taxation changes to ‘Right to Rent’ checks and carbon monoxide safety, it is becoming increasingly more complicated for landlords. It’s crucial that landlords stay on top of changes in the industry and ensure that their let is compliant and profitable.”

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Michael’s comments echo the research from the National Landlords Association which found that more and more landlords are turning to a managing agent to look after their property on their behalf, ensuring they meet their legal responsibilities and make a profit. The survey found there had been a 7% increase in the number of landlords using a letting agent from the end of 2016 to June of 2017, and that annually, the proportion of landlords who self-managed had decreased by almost 10%.

If you are a landlord and want more support with the management of your property, get in touch with Romans lettings team on 01344 985 870.

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