Articles by Chris Norris
Court Reform Essential for Renters’ Reform Plans to Work
An efficient court process, that provides timely access to justice, is essential for landlords. Unlike most businesses we can’t simply terminate contracts on expiry or withdraw services for non-payment, our investment is also a home and only a judge can order possession, which is only right. However, we can’t afford for reform to overwhelm an already overstretched court service and leave landlords powerless when tenancies fail.
Minister Delivers First Speech at NRLA Conference
On Tuesday 15 November the Coventry Arena played host to the first national NRLA conference, attended by more than 500 delegates, speakers, and exhibitors including the latest minister for the private rented sector Felicity Buchan MP.
Chancellor Delivers Tax Cutting Mini-Budget
Today (23 September 2022) the new Chancellor, Kwasi Kwarteng, delivered a statement to the House of Commons on plans to boost economic growth.
NRLA submits written evidence to the LUHC Select Committee
The NRLA has submitted written evidence to the Levelling-up, Housing, and Communities (LUHC) select committee inquiry into the Fairer Renting White Paper. NRLA CEO Ben Beadle will give in-person evidence to the committee on 5th September.
Base Rate Hike: Time for landlords to fight or take flight?
This week the Bank of England announced an interest rate increase from 1.25 to 1.75 per cent, the biggest single hike for 27 years. Here, NRLA Policy and Campaigns Director Chris Norris explores what the impact of the rise could be for landlords and the private rented sector.
Supreme Court to Consider Rent-to-Rent
The NRLA has applied to intervene in the Rakusen v Jepsen Supreme Court appeal. This does not mean that we are directly supporting either litigant or have become party to the case. Rather that we believe that the outcome of the case may affect other landlords whose interests should be heard and whom we wish to represent.
Reclaiming 'decency' for private landlords
The existing Decent Homes Standard was written two decades ago for a different sector, facing different challenges, with a lengthy implementation plan. In order to meet issues head on we need a revised standard, designed for all rented homes, and an appropriate timetable. Our proposals take the best from existing regulations and make it easier for landlords and tenants to apply them.
NRLA in talks with Number 10
NRLA policy director Chris Norris writes about a recent visit to Downing Street for talks with Number 10 housing advisers.
Energy Efficiency: Time is Running Out
It is highly likely that a new stricter target will be set in the very near future for the PRS. It was expected last October, and then in March of this year (2022) but has not materialised.
The Building Safety Bill - an update
Without a change of course, private landlords will be left with bills they cannot afford and work to remove dangerous cladding risks being slowed down completely.
