The King’s Speech 2024 has rolled out some big new bills that will shake things up for landlords, tenants, and the housing sector. The big ones to watch are the Renters’ Rights Bill, the English Devolution Bill, the draft Leasehold and Commonhold Reform Bill, and the Planning and Infrastructure Bill.

These bills aim to make renting, owning property, and urban planning better. Here’s a quick look at what’s in them and what they mean for landlords and tenants.

The Renters’ Rights Bill

This is Labour’s take on the now-shelved Renters (Reform) Bill, aiming to improve the private rental sector and give tenants more protections.

Key Points:

• Abolishing Section 21: Landlords will need clear reasons to reclaim properties.
• Enhanced Tenant Rights: Tenants can challenge rent hikes and rental bidding wars are banned.
• Pets in Rentals: Landlords must consider requests for pets but can ask for insurance.
• Decent Homes Standard: Ensures quality living conditions in rentals.
• ‘Awaab’s Law’: Sets legal deadlines for landlords to fix property issues.
• Digital Database: Centralized info for landlords, tenants, and councils.
• New Ombudsman: Faster, cheaper dispute resolution.
• Anti-Discrimination: No bias against tenants on benefits or with kids.
• Stronger Local Council Enforcement: More power to punish bad landlords.

For Landlords:

• Reclaiming property requires valid reasons.
• Rent increases must be justified and can be challenged by tenants.

For Tenants:

• You can keep pets if landlords agree, with possible insurance for damages.
• ‘Awaab’s Law’ means quicker fixes for reported issues.

The English Devolution Bill

This bill gives more control to local areas over housing and urban planning.

Key Points:

• Local Authority Powers: More control over housing policies and planning.
• Regional Funding: More money for local housing and infrastructure.
• Custom Policies: Regions can tailor policies to their needs.

For Landlords:

• Stay updated on local regulations as they might change.
• Better local infrastructure could raise property values.

For Tenants:

• More local control could mean better affordable housing.
• Tailored local policies might improve living conditions.

The Leasehold and Commonhold Reform Bill

This draft bill aims to make property ownership fairer and more transparent.

Key Points:

• Leasehold Reforms: Simplifies and reduces ground rents.
• Commonhold Improvements: Makes commonhold ownership more attractive.
• Transparency: Clearer rights and information for leaseholders.

For Landlords:

• Reduced ground rents might affect income but make properties more attractive.
• Commonhold ownership could simplify property management.

For Tenants:

• Easier and clearer process for buying property.
• Better transparency means you know your rights as a leaseholder.

The Planning and Infrastructure Bill

This bill aims to modernize the planning system for more efficient development.

Key Points:

• Streamlined Planning: Faster approvals for new developments.
• Infrastructure Improvements: More investment in public infrastructure.
• Sustainable Development: Focus on environmentally friendly practices.

For Landlords:

• Faster planning approvals mean quicker development.
• Better infrastructure can raise property value and rental income.

For Tenants:

• Likely to see more housing options.
• Sustainable buildings mean healthier, more energy-efficient homes.

How Big Are These Changes?

The King’s Speech 2024 brings significant changes with these new bills. They will impact how landlords and tenants navigate the rental market and property ownership in England. Understanding these changes will be crucial for everyone involved.