What do landlords think of the proposed PRS ombudsman?

Almost half, or 48%, of landlords surveyed were unsure whether the creation of a private rented sector (PRS) ombudsman – proposed by the government under the Renters Reform Bill – was a good idea and would like more information about it.

The aim of the ombudsman, which all which all landlords will be legally required to join, is to ensure disputes between private renters and landlords are settled impartially, quickly, at a low cost, and without going to court.

More than four in 10, or 42%, of the landlords surveyed by specialist buy-to-let lender Landbay agreed the ombudsman was a good idea, while 10% were against it.

Landlords who were supportive of an ombudsman scheme were keen to point out that it must be impartial and would welcome timely resolution of disputes rather than lengthy court cases.

Landbay noted that those against the creation of a PRS ombudsman were of the view that it would always side with the tenant, and that it was just a money-making scheme.

Those who were unsure pointed out that if an ombudsman would speed up resolving disputes, it would be a good thing. However, they also commented that government-run departments were typically very slow and adding another layer could worsen things.

The Renters Reform Bill had its first reading in the House of Commons in May but is not expected to pass into law until next year or even the following year.

“Our survey found uncertainty around the idea of a private rented sector ombudsman,” remarked Paul Brett (pictured), managing director of intermediaries at Landbay. “On the positive side, it would be good if disputes could be quickly resolved without having to go to court, but there is some scepticism as to how quick this would be. It appears that more information is needed before such a scheme is created.”

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