Editor's note: This brief was summarised by The Property AI Newsroom from a report by Property Industry Eye. Read the original article for full details.

Student Lettings Market Faces Major Shift Due to Renters’ Rights Act

Nearly half of student landlords intend to market their properties later than usual following the introduction of the Renters’ Rights Act, according to research by Accommodation for Students. The findings highlight a significant change in the student lettings cycle, which has traditionally seen properties marketed in October and November for the following academic year.

The research, covering around 7,400 student properties, found that 45% of student landlords plan to delay marketing. This shift is being driven by Ground 4A, a new student possession ground introduced by the Act, which requires landlords to avoid signing tenancy agreements more than six months before the tenancy start date if they wish to rely on this ground for possession.

Historically, landlords have marketed student homes almost a year in advance to ensure properties are let before the academic year begins. The new rules mean that signing agreements too early could prevent landlords from using Ground 4A to regain possession, prompting many to reconsider established practices.

The survey also found that 73% of landlords intend to use Ground 4A, while 65% were aware that entering into tenancy agreements too far in advance could affect their ability to rely on this provision. Some landlords are expected to continue advertising properties in the autumn but delay signing tenancy agreements until they fall within the six-month window.

This approach presents operational challenges for landlords and letting agents. Current holding deposit rules limit how long prospective tenants can reserve a property before a tenancy agreement is signed, creating uncertainty about how to manage the gap between securing tenant interest and completing a legally compliant tenancy.

The findings suggest that while October and November will likely remain important months for student property searches, more accommodation could become available later in the academic year as landlords adjust their marketing strategies.