South & East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership host successful landlord forum ahead of Renters’ Rights Act

Ahead of significant upcoming changes to housing legislation, the South & East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership brought together professionals from across the housing sector to help them prepare for the introduction of the Renters' Rights Act.

More than 100 landlords, letting agents and property investors attended the forum at the Jakemans Community Stadium in Boston, where they heard from the Partnership's housing teams and guest speakers.

The Act represents the most significant change to the private rented sector in 20 years, with Phase 1 of the Act expected to become operative in May this year.

The forum formed part of the Partnership's ongoing commitment to helping landlords and agents understand and prepare for the upcoming changes to rights and responsibilities. It was supported by Linda Cobb from Decent and Safe Homes (DASH), Alana Davies from the National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA), and Hannah Cleaver from the East Midlands Property Owners Association (EMPO).

Cllr John Baxter, Portfolio Holder for Housing at Boston Borough Council; Cllr William Gray, Portfolio Holder for Communities and Better Ageing at East Lindsey District Council; and Cllr Tracey Carter, Portfolio Holder for Strategic and Operational Housing at South Holland District Council, said jointly: "This was an informative and crucial event for everyone working in the housing sector, helping them prepare for this new legislation as well as other regulations and standards coming into effect this year.

"Bringing so many landlords and agents together provided an important opportunity for shared learning and support ahead of the changes. It also allowed council officers to explain more about their work and the ways they can support the sector to navigate what's ahead.

"Thank you to all those who attended and contributed to the forum. It was fantastic to see such strong engagement as we work together to prepare for the changes."

The Partnership is keen to arrange further sessions for those who were unable to attend. For more information, and to seek advice from the Partnership, contact Luke Settle, Housing Standards Team Leader: luke.settle@boston.gov.uk