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.

General elections in the United Kingdom are significant events that shape the economic, political, and social landscape of the country. One area that is particularly sensitive to the outcomes of such elections is the property market. The interplay between government policies, economic confidence, and market dynamics can lead to various shifts in property values, transaction volumes, and investor sentiment. This blog post will delve into the various ways general elections influence the UK property market, exploring historical trends, potential policy changes, and the implications for different market segments.

As a seasoned property expert, you’re well aware that the housing market is a complex choreography. House prices waltz, tango, and occasionally breakdance, leaving investors and homeowners alike pondering their next move. Today, we delve into the intricate steps of price volatility—a dance where supply, demand, and economic forces twirl in harmony. So, tighten your bowtie, and let’s explore this captivating performance.

The Mayor of London has an ambitious target to make London a zero carbon city by 2030. One of the ways to meet this goal is to decarbonise all of London’s 3.5 million homes by upgrading and retrofitting – improving existing homes for high energy efficiency.

The London Assembly Housing Committee has been investigating the operational, financial and physical challenges of retrofitting in London. The Committee has also investigated the energy efficiency initiatives already established by the Mayor.

With a brand-new majority government, the Conservative Party now has the mandate to carry out some sweeping reforms and this could well include an overhaul of stamp duty.

Most people prefer to work with a fresh canvas. Imagine painting your masterpieces on someone else’s painting. This is probably why brownfield sites are not the most desirable land to start building projects on, commercial or residential. Greenfield sites are a clean slate, previously unbuilt upon and typically are cheaper and easier sites for construction, but as the countryside in the UK rapidly disappears and the population increases, it is time for developers to start re-considering brownfield land.

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Are you in the preparatory stages of a new build? Maybe you’re ready to bring in an electrical contractor but are worried about how they’ll fare coming up against Part L of the Building Regs? In this article, I’ll be covering how to choose an electrical contractor for a new build that will be required to pass an air permeability test.

What is Part L

In 2006 the government passed Part L of the Building Regs setting the standards for air permeability in certain new builds and extensions in the UK. The Regulation is concerned with the conservation of fuel and power through limiting heat gains and losses via the building’s fabric. Split into 4 parts the documents lay out guidelines for both new and existing buildings.
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In the latest house price index, it was revealed that property in the UK had seen an annual price increase of 6.7%, with the average property now valued at £217,928. Naturally, with a rise in house prices will come an increase in home improvements. Recently, home services marketplace, Plentific.com, ran a survey which found that 1 in 3 renovate their property with the aim of increasing its value. As such, whether buying a new property or updating their current one, many homeowners will plan to renovate to take advantage of the increasing value. Consequently, many areas will see an increased rate of householder development planning applications being submitted to the government. Through these statistics, we can see the latest trends of home improvements in different regions across the UK.

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MOVING house requires specialist advice- now the CMA is making it easier for you to find a suitable legal provider.

Relocating or buying for the first time are some of the most stressful times in life, so it’s essential that you have the right legal advice to rely on when you need it most.

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has conducted a market study into legal services and found that home buyers and those moving house often don’t have the information they need at hand to make the right decision.

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Lords committee calls for government to refocus the planning system on high quality homes, not just housing numbers

• TCPA welcomes report from Lords Committee on Built Environment which calls for government to consider development corporations and review compulsory purchase
• Report stresses need for sustainable communities and environmental measures

A report published today by the House of Lords Built Environment Committee has stressed the importance of ensuring that the planning system creates good places for people, as well as tackles the housing crisis.

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