Estate strategy key to negotiating major changes in legislation

A continued emphasis on strategy is the way forward for estates and landowners, according to Balfours Partner, Frances Steer. She lists inheritance – with judicial review outcome still awaited; rental property compliance –beyond implementation of the Renters Rights Act EPC ratings to a “C” by 2030 and opportunities to review banking arrangements.

Frances considers: “Those with substantial residential rental portfolios, including estates are having to deal with very significant changes to compliance as a result of Renters Rights, from May 2026. The realistic timeframes for re-gaining possession of a property under the RR act is a worry; as is how the courts will cope with such cases – not only are they overstretched, but this is new legislation the courts have not dealt with before.

“Add to this, new regulations coming in the next four years continuing to put pressure on residential returns. Private landlords must achieve a “C” by 2030, with exemptions including a spend cap of £10,000 per property. While the majority of rural homes are of historic construction and do not have access to mains gas this is going to be a hard challenge.”

As a result, it is leading clients to consider their residential portfolios as a whole. Clients who have a significant portfolio, with a small percentage currently with a ‘C’ rating the reality is a spend cap of £10,000 per property means they will have to make some very difficult decisions over the next four years. We are recommending a full assessment of core and non-core properties and assessing investment required to ensure compliant reletting from 2030” Frances reflects.

As Estates consider selling some properties, they must take care not to flood the market. “Prompt overall strategy for estates and those with rental properties is key to navigating what is coming down the line in the next four years,” Frances concludes. For more information and confidential discussion call Frances on 01743 239206 m 07855 417846.