Landlords meet for National Conference

Landlords from across the United Kingdom met in London at the weekend for the National Landlords Association Conference to discuss issues affecting the letting of private residential property, and to participate in a series of workshops and live debates.

Delegates were able to question keynote speaker Neil McDonald, Director of Housing Management, Homelessness and Support Directorate, Communities and Local Government on a range of issues including HMO licencing and local housing allowance.

Mr McDonald reassured landlords concerned about cuts to local housing allowance that the government values the contribution made by the private rented sector in providing much-need homes to rent.

Mr McDonald said: "We fully appreciate that letting to housing benefit tenants must remain a sound business proposition.  We recognise that having a reliable rental stream is fundamental.

Mr McDonald agreed that the lack of mortgage funding for home buyers will increase the number of people looking for a home to rent.  He acknowledged that there is a big opportunity for the private rented sector caused by tight limits on growth in both the social and owner occupied sectors.

David Salusbury, Chairman, National Landlords Association, commented:  "This year's conference was a huge success, with landlords hearing from a range of speakers about the major issues facing the private rented sector.

"It's clear that landlords are still concerned about government cuts, direct payment of housing benefits and access to finance.

"The conference was an excellent opportunity to put these concerns directly to a government representative and the NLA will continue to lobby on these issues."

For more information, visit landlords.org.uk.