Renters Rights Bill has silver lining for letting agents

Richard Donnell, executive director of Zoopla, sees the Renters Rights Bill as an opportunity for letting agents to expand their business. He highlights that lettings contribute significantly to agency revenues, especially in London, where the ratio is 70:30 in favor of rentals.

Donnell notes that as rents have surged—by a third over the last five years—letting agents’ incomes have grown accordingly. He predicts that tighter regulations in Scotland, Wales, and England could push more landlords to use agents, increasing their market share beyond the current 50%.

With the right marketing approach, agents can capitalize on this shift, particularly as amateur landlords exit the sector due to retirement or reduced profitability. Professional landlords will likely take their place, prioritizing efficient and cost-effective property management, especially with stricter energy efficiency rules coming in 2028.

Donnell suggests that agents focusing on long-term landlord cash flow will be best positioned for sustainable business growth.