"The UK government must fully understand and recognise the impact that these changes will have"

Timothy Douglas, head of policy and campaigns at Propertymark, commented: “Having met with the housing minister, it is clear his intention is for these reforms to overhaul private renting in England. They are a long-held manifesto commitment from Labour, with the new government at Westminster using their mandate for reform.

“While Propertymark acknowledges the drive towards improved standards, the UK government must fully understand and recognise the impact that these changes will have with agents up and down the country left wondering how this legislation will help meet the much-needed demand for homes for people to rent.

“With such significant changes to the current tenancy regime there must be a commitment to ensure the court system and grounds for possession are robust and fit for purpose. Furthermore, without an enhanced, effective and well-resourced enforcement regime from local authorities it is unlikely that any benefits from the reforms will be realised.

“Propertymark will continue to make the case for evidenced based policies that support a flexible and fair PRS for all.”