Key Updates and Changes for Landlords and Agents
As we welcome Spring, there are several important updates for landlords and agents.
Stamp Duty Changes Effective From 1 April 2025
The Autumn Budget 2024 introduced changes to the SDLT thresholds for additional properties, as well as new adjustments for first time buyers, which will come into effect from 1 April 2025. These include a reduction in the first-time buyer’s relief and changes to the nil-rate threshold. More information on the proposed changes can be found here-Stamp Duty Land Tax: Residential property rates - GOV.UK
Renters Rights Bill
The Bill is progressing through the Houses of Lords with some amendments. It is anticipated that the Bill will be passed into law in Summer 2025. Landlords and Agents should prepare for changes to fixed tenancies and the removal of Section 21 notices. The Property documents will be updated as and when necessary once the changes take effect.
EPC Consultation
The Government opened its consultation on future minimum energy efficiency standards (MEES) for the private rented sector. More information can be found here- Improving the energy performance of privately rented homes: 2025 update - GOV.UK
Landlord Court Fees Rise
Subject to parliamentary approval, the Ministry of Justice proposes an increase in fees for civil proceedings applications. More information can be found here - Court and tribunal fees: updates from April 2025 - GOV.UK
Pests in Lets
As we transition into the spring and summer months, warmer weather can increase the risk of pests and rodents in rental properties. To help tenants manage this, a useful Letter to Tenant Preventing Pest Infestation is available for landlords to send to tenants to assist them in maintaining their properties during these months.
Commercial Property
A dedicated set of documents is now available to assist in the completion of form AP1 which is a key document in registrations with HM Land Registry. See Registering a Lease at the Land Registry | Simply-Docs for more information.
The contents of this Newsletter are for reference purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Independent legal advice should be sought in relation to any specific legal matter.