New rental ombudsman scheme won’t include agents
Summary
The government has outlined plans for a new Landlord Ombudsman under the Renters Rights Act, intended to handle disputes involving landlords rather than letting agents. The scheme would issue binding decisions and could award compensation up to £25,000, while existing agent redress schemes would continue to cover letting agents.
Why it matters
Residential property surveyors may encounter increased dispute resolution activity around landlord responsibilities, particularly where issues are not attributable to agents. The proposal also signals further regulatory change in the private rented sector, which may affect advice, reporting and stakeholder expectations.
Key points
- New ombudsman scheme will apply to landlords, not letting agents
- Existing redress schemes for agents will continue to operate
- Scheme could award compensation up to £25,000
- Housing Ombudsman Service is expected to deliver the new service
- Further regulations and implementation details are still to come
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