Landlords tighten reference and guarantor requirements
Summary
The article reports that many landlords are tightening tenant referencing and affordability checks following the Renters’ Rights Act, with a significant share also asking for guarantors. It also notes low awareness among landlords of the forthcoming registration requirement under the Act, alongside signs of portfolio adjustment and increased tenant-related disputes.
Why it matters
These shifts may affect the availability and accessibility of rented homes, which is relevant to surveyors involved in lettings, valuation and advising on investment risk. The low awareness of new registration requirements also signals a compliance issue that could affect landlords and managing agents.
Key points
- Almost 40% of landlords say they are stricter on references and affordability checks.
- Around one-third are now asking for a guarantor.
- 29% plan to shrink their portfolio or sell within two years.
- 32% have had a complaint referred to a deposit scheme, council or ombudsman.
- More than three quarters were unaware of the new register due later this year.
This is an RPSA summary of a publicly available article. The full content remains with the original publisher.
