Are you renting in 2022? Here are five things you need to know this year about your rights to help you make the right decisions.
1. Six Month Eviction Notice Rule Extended in Wales
In Wales, laws that require your landlord to give you six months’ notice before evicting tenants, have been extended. The rule, which was enacted in response to the COVID-19 pandemic in July 2020, was set to expire in December 2021. However, the Welsh government has decided to extend it until March 2022. This applied to all kinds of evictions, except in cases of domestic violence and anti-social behaviour. *
2. New Energy Efficiency Rules
Renters in England and Wales can expect to live in homes that are more energy efficient.
This year, the government plans to push through new energy efficiency regulations. All rental properties must have an energy performance rating of C or higher, according to the new rules. This could require upgrading to double glazed windows, a more energy-efficient boiler, and extra insulation.
As a result, gas, and electricity could become less expensive. However, you may not notice a change any time soon.
The government is set to extend the deadline for new rental agreements until 2026, and until 2028 for existing ones.
3. Carbon Monoxide Safety Regulations are Tightening.
The government is implementing new carbon monoxide safety guidelines for rental homes with gas boilers or gas fireplaces, following a consultation. Carbon Monoxide detectors must be installed by landlords. This is true for both current and new appliances. If the detectors are broken, they must be repaired or replaced. The goal is to eliminate accidental carbon monoxide poisoning. This also aims to make renters feel safer at home.
4. The Average Age of a Renter is Rising
Throughout the last decade, the number of people aged 55 to 64 who rent in the private sector has more than doubled. According to the most recent English Housing Survey, there has also been a considerable increase in the number of renters aged 45 to 54. *
The surge of older renters is largely down to rising property prices, which make it more difficult to buy a home, as well as people divorcing later in life.
5. Rising Competition for Rental Homes
Increasing numbers of people are looking for rental properties in the UK. However, the number of new properties coming to market has decreased, driving competition within the rental sector.
According to the latest research from Rightmove, demand is up by 43%, while the number of rental homes available is down by 43%. **
Rent increases have hit a 13-year high as a result of the gap between supply and demand.
The average price of a rental property in the UK, excluding London, is currently £809 per calendar month. Outside of London, rents are set to rise by 4.5% this year. **
Want to find out more? Contact our expert local agents for more information.
*According to GOV.UK (Feb 2022)
*According to the most recent English Housing Survey.
** According to recent data from Rightmove.
