Your September 2024 newsletter

September signals potential changes in the lettings industry while the summer months coming to an end.

A Labour government is back after 14 years, and new selective licensing schemes are rolling out. Here are the key things you may need to know this month.

Parliament in and out of session

Parliament resumes on 1 September, bringing with it the potential for significant legislative updates that could affect the lettings industry.

It has already been confirmed that the initial discussions on the Great British Energy Bill will take place on 5 September.

However, Parliament will briefly recess again on 13 September for party conferences and will resume on 6 October.

The key dates for some political parties are:

Liberal Democrats Party: 14-17 September

Labour Party: 22-25 September

Conservative Party: 29 September – 2 October

Each political party will gather politicians, party members and affiliated groups during each conference. The party conference may determine a new leader for a political party and outline any key agendas and issues relating to UK topics.

Introduction of selective licensing schemes

September also marks the introduction of new selective licensing schemes.

From 2 September, Lambeth and Brighton and Hove are implementing these schemes, with fees of £923 and £690 per property, respectively.

Non-compliance risks fines, making it essential to stay updated on licensing requirements in their areas.

Other areas, such as Wandsworth and Salford, will host consultations regarding additional selective licenses.

However, this doesn’t cover all the potential licenses introduced this month, we will need to check our local authority websites to see if any property requires further licensing.

Housing (Scotland) Bill continues

The Housing (Scotland) Bill, introduced on 26 March 2024, continues to progress through the Scottish Parliament this month.

This Bill addresses a range of property topics such as rent control, evictions, pets in lets, and letting agent registration.

Currently, it is in Stage 1 – General Principles, where the Local Government, Housing and Planning Committee will examine the Bill and gather views. This September, Scotland’s Housing Minister, Paul McLennan MSP, will provide evidence for this Bill.

The outcome of this stage, set to conclude on 29 November, will determine whether the Bill advances or is rejected. Letting agents should monitor these developments closely, as they could significantly impact Scottish rental practices.

The Revive Property team.