Writing in NLJ this week, Stephen Gold, NLJ columnist, surveys draft regulations for England’s private rented sector database. Regional rollout starts in the West Midlands on 15 December, with landlords given three months to register and an annual £65 charge per property. Agents can supply information, but legal responsibility remains with landlords.
Meanwhile, the government plans to send ‘initial rent assessments’ to HMRC’s valuation office, shifting work intended for the Property Chamber. Implementation could take two years, while recruitment for around 90 tribunal judges continues.
Gold also covers the latest CPR update, bringing specific performance alongside housing disrepair damages within the digital pilot, and wider access to online money claims.
Supreme Court practice changes include a presumption against counsel robing and stricter bundle requirements. A selection exercise for 130 deputy district judge positions is due later this month.
