Helping Innovate Property (HIP) – Blog, Housing Market News and Articles

Section 21 evictions, colloquially known as “no-fault” evictions, have been a contentious issue in the UK housing market for years. Introduced under the Housing Act 1988, Section 21 allows landlords to evict tenants without providing a reason, provided they give at least two months’ notice once the fixed-term tenancy has ended. While this provision offers landlords flexibility, it has been heavily criticised for contributing to housing insecurity and instability for tenants. The upcoming Renters’ Reform Bill, proposed by the UK government, seeks to abolish Section 21 evictions, signaling a significant shift in the private rental sector. This article will explore the current practice of Section 21 evictions, examine the criticisms it faces, and discuss how the Renters’ Reform Bill might reshape the future of renting in the UK.

The UK rental market is undergoing a significant transformation in 2024, driven largely by new regulatory measures that aim to reshape the dynamics between landlords and tenants. Among these, the Renters’ Reform Bill stands out as one of the most impactful changes. Introduced by the Labour government, this legislation seeks to abolish Section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions, enhance tenants’ rights, and improve the overall quality of rented accommodation. Coupled with stricter Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) requirements and other regulatory updates, these changes present both challenges and opportunities for landlords.

Buying a new build property is an exciting prospect, offering the opportunity to own a home with modern designs, advanced technology, and minimal initial maintenance requirements. However, the process is not without its complexities and potential pitfalls. Prospective buyers need to be diligent and informed to ensure their investment is sound. This blog post outlines key considerations and cautions for anyone looking to purchase a new build property in the UK.

On 30th June 2011 a piece of legislation comes into effect that will ensure that an Energy Performance Certificate or EPC is required on Holiday Lettings. This will bring Holiday Lets into line with other properties that need an EPC, such as those currently required on sales and rental basis.

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Domestic energy assessors (DEAs) as a collective have felt  that they have suffered a number of blows within the market place since the introduction of the EPC requirement. Since the removal of the HIP legislation they have seemingly been dealt further challenges as the market place changes further. Is this about to change?

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Many energy assessors are wondering what to do now since HIPs have been scrapped and the validity of the EPC for sales purposes has in effect been extended to 10 years. The fear is non-compliance rises due to the absence of the HIP, similar to we see in Northern Ireland and the commercial EPC market.

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To the Directors and Shareholders of Barclays PLC and HSBC Holdings PLC

In the Matter of Property Professionals + Ltd (in administration)

This letter is addressed to Barclays PLC in its capacity as the owners of Barclays Partner Finance, a company which had a trading arrangement with Property Professionals + Ltd (PP+) by which finance packages were sold to candidates for training at the four centres operated by PP+.

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Many landlords have an issue with getting the right type of tenants.  Quite naturally, Landlords want tenants who will pay on time, take good care of the property, and keep open lines of communication with both the letting agent and the landlord.

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Until today, home sellers had to have a Home Information Pack in place before their home could be put on the market.  HIPs have now been suspended, pending primary legislation for a permanent abolition.  Before the election, the Conservative Party promised a consultation on their complete removal, but this isn’t mentioned in the official announcement.

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Eric Pickles has finally granted Mr Shapps’s long held desire to suspend HIPs this morning, though it remains unclear on what basis. Grant Shapps who has increasing appeared to be on personal crusade to scrap HIPs has seemingly suceeded and issued a statement shortly afterwards.

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The Conservative and Liberal Democrats have published their initial coalition agreement which will be followed in due course by a final coalition agreement.

The Lib-Con Coalition Agreement published makes reference to Energy Performance Certificates and Home Information Packs under section 11 on the environment.

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