The House of Lords have altered the Renters’ Rights Bill by giving student landlords more power to evict tenants.
An amendment to Ground 4A means landlords of one- and two- bedroom student properties can regain possession to rent to a new cohort of students.
The move has been praised by agency group Propertymark, which said it safeguards the risk of diminishing student housing supply.
The Lords also amended the bill so the UK government has to review tribunal capacity to handle more rent challenge cases.
Meanwhile an amendment has made it so landlords can let a property six months after serving notice on their tenants with a view to making a sale, down from 12 months. However, they have to provide evidence they sufficiently marketed the property and no suitable offers were refused.
The bill has also been amended so tenants keeping pets will have to pay an extra deposit to cover any damage.
Timothy Douglas, head of policy and campaigns at Propertymark, said: “Peers have listened to Propertymark’s expertise and the voices of our members, delivering pragmatic changes that protect landlords, agents, and renters alike.
“From securing pet damage deposits and student tenancy safeguards to ensuring tribunal capacity reviews and assured advice under the Tenant Fees Act, these wins demonstrate that our campaigning has made the Bill more workable for letting agents while delivering fairer outcomes for tenants.
“This is a real step forward for professionalism, confidence, and a rental sector that works for everyone.”