Legislation Without Enforcement: Can the Lettings Industry Step Up Where the System Falls Short?

In recent years, the UK government has introduced wave after wave of new legislation to raise standards in the Private Rented Sector (PRS)—from tenant fee bans to energy efficiency rules, and now the forthcoming Renters (Reform) Bill.

But while the intent may be clear, the reality on the ground tells a different story: many existing rules aren’t being enforced, and some rogue operators continue to fly under the radar.

This raises a critical question:🔎 Can the lettings industry do more to uphold standards even when enforcement is lacking? At Pro Property London, we believe the answer is yes—and that agents, landlords, and service providers have a real role to play in shaping a better, more trustworthy market.

⚖️ The Problem: Laws Without Consequences

There’s no shortage of regulations in the PRS. Just a few examples:

• Tenancy Deposit Protection

• Right to Rent checks

• Electrical Safety Standards (EICR)

• Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) requirements

• Licensing schemes for HMOs

• Smoke and CO alarm regulations

  
  

Yet, enforcement often falls short due to:

🚫 Underfunded local authorities🧾 Bureaucratic complaint processes🕵️‍♂️ Limited inspection resources⏳ Long delays in prosecuting breaches

As a result, compliant agents and landlords often feel penalised for playing by the rules—while others cut corners and undercut on price.

🏗️ The Opportunity: An Industry That Polices Itself (And Wins)

If we want a PRS that is profitable, professional, and trusted by tenants, waiting for enforcement to catch up isn’t a viable strategy.

Here’s how letting agents and property professionals can lead the change:

✅ 1. Raise the Baseline for Professionalism

Agents should adopt above-minimum practices as standard—such as independent inventories, mid-term inspections, and regular landlord education. By raising expectations, the industry strengthens its own reputation.

📋 At Pro Property London, we’re already helping agents protect clients and meet compliance without needing enforcement pressure to act.

✅ 2. Create Accountability Through Documentation

With frequent tenant turnover and increased scrutiny from upcoming reforms, detailed reporting is the only real protection. Letting agents that enforce best practices—regardless of local authority action—will reduce disputes, protect landlords, and maintain tenant trust.

✅ 3. Support Smarter Enforcement Models

Where possible, agencies should work with councils, accreditation schemes, and landlord associations to improve the enforcement process:

• Flag repeat offenders

• Share intelligence

• Promote licensing and training

• Participate in voluntary audits

✅ 4. Encourage Peer Pressure & Market Reputation

Reputation matters. Agents who adhere to high standards—and market those standards clearly—create pressure on others to follow suit. Use compliance as a selling point to both tenants and landlords.

✅ 5. Use Trusted Third-Party Services

From EPC assessors to independent inventory clerks, working with vetted, reliable suppliers ensures standards are upheld consistently.

At Pro Property London, we partner with letting agents across London to deliver:

✔️ Accurate, independent inventory reports

✔️ Mid-term and check-out inspections

✔️ Fast digital turnaround

✔️ Legally compliant documentation with photographic evidence

✔️ Full coverage across Greater London

📍 Final Thought: Enforcement Starts with Us

Yes, we need better government support and clearer processes. But a better lettings sector won’t come from enforcement alone. It will come from professionalism, collaboration, and accountability.

The agencies that step up now will be the ones who succeed later—earning landlord loyalty, tenant trust, and long-term business stability.

🚀 Want to Work With a Team That Holds Itself to the Highest Standard?

Let’s talk.

📞 Call us: 02038663808

🌐 Visit: www.propropertylondon.co.uk

📧 Contact: talktous@propropertylondon.co.uk