What Landlords Should Focus on Under the Renters’ Rights Changes

As the private rented sector continues to adapt to the Renters’ Rights reforms, landlords preparing properties for the summer market should focus less on tenancy cycles and more on compliance, property standards, tenant relationships, and effective marketing.

While seasonal demand still influences enquiry levels, successful lettings increasingly depend on preparation and ongoing management.

Property readiness remains essential

If a property is expected to become available during the coming months, preparation should begin early.

Landlords should consider:

• Completing maintenance works and repairs
• Reviewing property presentation
• Updating marketing photographs and descriptions
• Ensuring compliance documents are available
• Checking safety requirements have been met

Properties that are ready to market immediately may benefit from stronger visibility and reduced downtime.

Compliance checks before marketing

Before advertising a property, landlords should ensure legal obligations have been addressed.

Key areas include:

• Valid EPC documentation
• Gas Safety Certificates where required
• Electrical safety compliance
• Smoke alarm requirements
• Carbon monoxide alarm obligations where applicable
• Deposit protection procedures
• Right to Rent requirements where applicable
• Provision of prescribed information

Keeping documentation organised can help reduce delays once a tenant is found.

Rent reviews and pricing

The Renters’ Rights changes place greater focus on transparency around rental pricing and rent review processes.

Landlords should ensure:

• Rental values reflect current market evidence
• Any rent review process follows current legislation
• Pricing decisions are supported by comparable local properties
• Marketing accurately reflects the advertised rent and property features

Setting realistic rental values may help improve enquiry quality and reduce unnecessary void periods.

Maintaining existing tenancies

Retaining good tenants can support long-term property performance and reduce marketing costs.

Positive tenancy management may include:

• Responding promptly to maintenance issues
• Maintaining clear communication
• Carrying out inspections in accordance with legal requirements
• Keeping properties in good condition
• Addressing concerns proactively

Well-managed properties often support longer-term occupancy and stronger landlord and tenant relationships.

Property standards and maintenance

The direction of travel within the private rented sector places increasing emphasis on property condition and tenant experience.

Landlords should regularly review:

• General property condition
• Repair obligations
• Ventilation and damp issues
• Safety measures
• Energy performance
• Communal areas where applicable

Preventative maintenance can help reduce larger repair costs and improve tenant satisfaction.

Marketing for the summer market

Summer remains an active period for many tenant groups, including professionals relocating, families moving during school holidays, and students preparing for the academic year.

Marketing should focus on genuine property strengths such as:

• Transport connections
• Outdoor space
• Home working areas
• Local amenities
• Energy efficiency features
• Storage and layout benefits

Professional photography and accurate descriptions remain important throughout the year.

Portfolio planning for landlords

Landlords with multiple properties may wish to review:

• Compliance documentation across all homes
• Maintenance schedules
• Property condition reports
• Marketing activity
• Occupancy levels
• Repair programmes

Forward planning can help maintain standards and support efficient property management.

A practical checklist for landlords

Review now:

✓ Maintenance and repairs completed
✓ Compliance documents updated
✓ Marketing materials refreshed
✓ Property presentation checked
✓ Local rental evidence reviewed
✓ Safety requirements confirmed

Supporting landlords through change

The lettings market continues to evolve, and the focus is increasingly moving towards compliance, property quality, transparency, and long-term tenancy management.

At James Anderson, we support landlords across South West London with property management, compliance guidance, marketing advice, and day-to-day tenancy support as the sector adapts to the Renters’ Rights changes.