The party also recommended further work be undertaken with tenant and landlord organisations.
The Liberal Democrats have voted to abolish Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions by a reform of the Housing Act 1988.
In April, the government announced plans to scrap no-fault evictions in England, with Wales also planning to end no-fault evictions following a consultation in July.
David Cox, chief executive at ARLA Propertymark, said: “Today’s vote at the Liberal Democrat Conference is another attack on the private rental sector and landlords operating within it.
“The effects of the tenant fees ban have not yet been felt, and yet more proposed legislation could deter landlords from operating in the market.
“Although in the majority of cases there is no need for Section 21 to be used, there are times when a landlord has no choice but to take action and evict tenants from a property.
“The proposed commitment will only increase pressure on the sector and discourage new landlords from investing in buy-to-let properties.
“This comes at a time when demand is dramatically outpacing supply, and rent costs are rising.
“ARLA Propertymark will be engaging with the Liberal Democrats to ensure they fully understand the consequences of any changes, and all changes are based on evidence, so landlords have the ability to regain their properties if needed.”
At a recent party conference the Liberal Democrats, led by Jo Swinson (pictured), also called for the reform of court processes as has happened in Scotland, to help landlords receive justice quicker if tenants breach their tenancy agreements.
The party recommended further work be undertaken with tenant and landlord organisations to explore the opportunities of further reform and improvement of the private rental sector.
