8th June 2009

The National Approved Letting Scheme (NALS) is inviting key industry representatives to discuss licensing at its second Licensing Consultative Forum, chaired by Lord Richard Best on 9th June 2009.

Following on from the success of the inaugural forum, a second has been called to further shape the future of private rentals licensing and regulation. While the first forum proved to be a decisive move in determining wider industry attitudes, the second will conclude discussions, better establishing a workable lettings regulation framework.

Caroline Pickering, Chair of NALS, says these forums are part of an ongoing programme to raise standards in the private rented sector; enhance consumer protection and implement a proportionate licensing policy that supports required legislation

“The best way forward is to develop a practical and coherent framework by mutual consent,” she explains. “Our overall aim is to introduce a simple, inclusive, low-cost lettings scheme that delivers a level of protection for consumers, and is also achievable by all well-managed agents. There can be no doubt that mandatory regulation of lettings agents will propel the sector forward in achieving best practice and increased provision and security for tenants and landlords.”

Chaired by Lord Richard Best, an influential sector figure and Chair of The Property Ombudsman Scheme, a host of industry influencers are already scheduled to attend the event. The upcoming forum follows the recent Communities and Local Government official response to the Rugg Report, issued earlier this month.

“We are very pleased that the Government overwhelmingly agrees with the Rugg Report’s call for independent regulation of lettings and management agents,” says Pickering. “We will present our recommendations to key policy influencers, so as a Government-backed initiative; NALS is the clear choice to carry out independent agent regulation.”

Over the past ten years, NALS has highlighted the need for tighter regulation and accountability among lettings and management agents, remaining committed to promoting accreditation. The NALS logo is also ever closer to becoming the industry-wide kitemark, reinforcing consumer confidence and encouraging landlords to adhere to best practice