11 August 2025
David Smith featured in press on resignation of homelessness minister
Property Litigation Partner David Smith is featured in the legal and property press, commenting on the resignation of homelessness minister Rushanara Ali following reports she had increased the rent on a property she owns soon after the previous tenant’s contract ended.
Although Ms Ali had not broken the law as it stands, her actions would be prohibited under the Renters’ Rights Bill, which is currently going through Parliament.
David says: “This situation highlights a common problem in the private rental sector that landlords often serve notice to sell, but around a quarter of those properties never actually sell and end up back on the rental market.
“Under the new rules, such homes would have to sit empty for a year, further restricting supply and depriving renters of much-needed housing. While the Renters' Rights Bill is designed to protect tenants from unfair evictions, it will be important to ensure it doesn’t unintentionally reduce the availability of rental properties."
Read David’s comments:
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