LANDLORD TIMES
October 2026 Edition
Monthly news for landlords brought to you by:
NATIONAL PROPERTY REGISTRATION SCHEME ROLLS OUT FROM DECEMBER 2026
ARE YOU READY? The Government has released
While the first registration
will begin its rollout in the West
further details about its upcoming
deadline is still a few months
Midlands on 15 December 2026,
"Register Your Rental Property"
away, now is the time for landlords
before expanding region by region
service, giving landlords and
to understand what will be
across England throughout 2027.
required and how these changes
Under the scheme:
letting agents greater clarity on how the new national registration
could affect their rental portfolios.
Landlords will pay £65 per
scheme will be introduced across
What Is Changing?
property, per year to register.
England.
The new registration service
Once registration becomes
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mandatory in a region, landlords will have three months to comply. Properties in the West Midlands must be registered by 14 March 2027. The national rollout is expected to be completed by November 2027. Importantly, registration requirements are based on where the property is located, rather than where the landlord or managing agent is based. What Will Landlords Need to Do? Once registration becomes mandatory in your property's region, you will need: An active Landlord Registration Number. A Property Registration Number for every rental property you let. To keep all information held on the register accurate and up to date. Failure to register within the required timeframe could result in financial penalties. The Government has also confirmed that future legislation will prevent unregistered properties from being marketed or advertised, although these restrictions will not come into force until the regional rollout has been completed. Why Is the Register Being Introduced? The Government's objective is to create a more transparent private rented sector by: Helping tenants make informed decisions about where they rent
Making it more difficult for rogue landlords to operate outside the system For professional landlords already meeting their obligations, the register may provide an opportunity to showcase good practice and maintain confidence within the sector. What About Portfolio Landlords? Landlords with properties across multiple regions may wish to consider registering their entire portfolio as early as possible. The Government has confirmed that landlords will be able to register properties ahead of their regional deadline from 15 December 2026, potentially simplifying administration for larger portfolios rather than managing several registration dates across England. The Role of Letting Agents One important point for landlords to note is that the Government has stated that the registration process must be initiated and completed by the landlord. However, agents and property managers will be able to assist with certain aspects of the process, with further guidance expected before launch.
"We will be working hard to ensure that all our landlords are well supported throughout the new registration process and eagerly await further clarity on the extent to which we will be able to input information on behalf of our clients. It is important that all landlords are aware of this new obligation and act within the correct timeframe, so our efforts at present are focused on communicating the requirements and deadlines, as well as signposting landlords to the available information." Stay Ahead of the Changes The introduction of a national landlord register represents one of the most significant administrative changes for the private rented sector in recent years. While the rollout will be phased, preparation now will help avoid last-minute complications and ensure compliance when registration becomes mandatory in your area. If you would like guidance on how the new scheme may affect your properties, or would like to register your interest in receiving support once the service launches, please contact your local SBK Lettings branch.
For landlords working with managing agents, support will be invaluable as different regions move through the registration programme and deadlines begin to vary across portfolios. Rebecca Dean, Regional Director at SBK Lettings, commented:
Allowing responsible landlords to demonstrate compliance
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Making Tax Digital: More Landlords Set to Join from April 2027 The government's Making Tax Digital (MTD) for Income Tax programme is continuing to expand, and many landlords may soon find themselves required to comply with the new reporting rules. Currently, MTD applies to landlords and sole traders with qualifying income above £50,000. However, the threshold will reduce to £30,000 from April 2027, before falling again to £20,000 from April 2028. For landlords, qualifying income is based on gross rental turnover before expenses are deducted, meaning some property owners who do not consider themselves high earners could still be brought into the scheme. If your 2025-26 tax return shows rental income exceeding £30,000, now is the time to start preparing for the changes ahead.
November Deadline Approaching
during the period.
For landlords already signed up to MTD, the next quarterly update must be submitted to HMRC by 7 November 2026.
While HMRC has confirmed there
Unlike a traditional tax return, quarterly updates provide HMRC with a summary of your income and expenses throughout the year via compatible software. The system also allows corrections to be included in future submissions without the need to resubmit previous reports.
submitted before a tax return can
Before the deadline, landlords should ensure:
submissions throughout the year.
Digital records are fully up to date.
will be no penalty points for late quarterly updates during the 202627 tax year, updates must still be be completed. What Does This Mean for Landlords? Although MTD is designed to streamline tax reporting, it does place greater emphasis on digital record-keeping and regular Landlords who currently rely on spreadsheets or paper records may benefit from reviewing their processes sooner rather than later.
Their software remains connected to HMRC.
Lettings agents and accountants
Income and expense figures are accurate.
their obligations, choose suitable
A submission is made even if there has been no rental activity
compliant as the new rules are
can help landlords understand software and ensure they remain introduced.
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Government Updates Landlord Guidance on Housing Hazard Assessments
The government has released
The HHSRS is the system used by
Simplified Risk Categories
updated guidance for landlords
councils to identify and evaluate
The number of hazard categories
following the introduction of the
health and safety risks within
has been reduced from 29 to 21,
revised Housing Health and Safety
residential properties. The latest
with similar risks now grouped
Rating System (HHSRS) in England.
reforms are designed to simplify
together under broader headings.
assessments and make hazard
This is intended to streamline the
The updated guide, published on 16 September 2026, aims to provide greater clarity on the changes that came into effect on 23 June 2026 and how local authorities will now assess housing hazards.
ratings easier to understand for both landlords and enforcement
assessment process and improve consistency.
authorities.
New Hazard Classifications
Key changes landlords should know:
The previous A to J hazard bands
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have been replaced with a simpler three-tier system: High
those associated with uncontrolled fire, smoke and fumes, explosions, and potential structural collapse resulting from fire or explosion.
Medium Low This new approach aims to make hazard ratings more straightforward and easier to interpret. Updated Harm Classifications The former harm classes have also been renamed. Hazards will now be assessed according to four levels of severity:
Revised Scoring Methodology The government has introduced a simplified scoring system to help determine the seriousness of hazards more clearly and consistently. New Case Studies and Examples
Severe
A refreshed set of case studies has been published to illustrate how HHSRS assessments should be carried out in practice, providing useful benchmarks for landlords and housing professionals.
Serious
What This Means for Landlords
Moderate
While the changes do not introduce new landlord obligations, they do affect the way local authorities assess property conditions and prioritise
Extreme
Broader Fire Safety Assessments Fire-related hazards now cover a wider range of risks, including
enforcement action. Landlords should ensure they remain vigilant about property standards and familiarise themselves with the updated guidance to understand how hazards may now be classified. Regular property inspections, prompt maintenance, and a proactive approach to health and safety remain the best ways to minimise risk and ensure compliance. These changes apply only to properties in England. Wales operates under its own HHSRS framework and guidance, which remains separate from the regulations introduced in England. By staying informed about the updated HHSRS guidance, landlords can better understand how their properties may be assessed and continue to provide safe, compliant homes for tenants.
First-Time Buyer Scheme Could Boost Demand Across the Property Market A new government-backed
from a participating developer with
While full details are yet to be
initiative designed to help first-time
an equity loan worth up to 20%
announced, including income
buyers onto the property ladder
of the purchase price. The loan is
thresholds, regional property price
is expected to be confirmed in the
expected to include an interest-free
Budget on 28 October 2026.
period, helping to reduce both the size of the deposit required and
caps, the length of the interest-free period and the launch date, the
The proposed "Your First Home"
the monthly mortgage costs when
scheme could provide a welcome
scheme would provide eligible first-
compared with a traditional 95%
boost for aspiring homeowners
time buyers purchasing a property
mortgage.
struggling to save while renting.
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Click on the properties to view further details brought to you by
I N PA RT N E R S H I P W I T H
Discover
Find your dream home this autumn and winter and take advantage of generous incentives. Call our dedicated new homes team today to discover how you can take advantage of schemes that will help get you moving hassle free.
New Homes Team 01789 333 466
To follow Sheldon Bosley Knight on socials click here
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Greenhill Street, Stratford-upon-Avon • First floor studio apartment • Modern shower room
• The property previously generated £7,800 per annum
• No on-ward chain
• EPC - C
• Town centre location
Gross yield of 12%
£65,000
For auction properties click logo
London Road, Coventry • A company sale offering excellent returns on investment • 15 double and one single self-contained high quality studios within walking distance of Coventry city centre • Modern self-contained living spaces
• Fully occupied with existing
Price on Application
tenancies in place at good market rents • EPC - C
*All rental values and subsequent yields are only estimates unless tenanted and subject to market fluctuations.
To follow Sheldon Bosley Knight on socials click here
Toler Road Nuneaton • Ideal refurbishment opportunity for investors, landlords and developers • Mid-Terraced property • Two-bedrooms
Gross yield of 10.4%
• Approx rent value of £950 pcm
£110,000
once refurbished • EPC - D
For auction properties click logo
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Westhaven Court, Station Road, Market Bosworth, Nuneaton • Requires a programme of refurbishment
• Garage in a separate block.
• Two-bedroom end-terraced property
• EPC - C
• Ideal for developers, investors and owner-occupiers • Convenient location close to Market Bosworth
For auction properties click logo
*All rental values and subsequent yields are only estimates unless tenanted and subject to market fluctuations.
£135,000
£249,950 STARTING PRICE
OVER 90 YEARS OF AWARD-WINNING HOMEBUILDING EXPERIENCE
With various house styles available across the Midlands, now is the perfect time to secure your next investment. William Davis Homes create homes and communities across the Midlands with attention to detail and care, ensuring each property is designed for modern family living.
Bulk deals available* – call today to discuss. New Homes Team 01789 333 466 Please note: Locations may vary; pricing and specifications are subject to change. Contact our New Homes team for detailed information. Estate fees are payable and will be confirmed by the developer and your solicitors. Subject to terms and conditions*
To follow Sheldon Bosley Knight on socials click here
Apartment 7, The Old Post Office, Moreton in Marsh • Open-plan kitchen and living room
• Current rent value of £1,025 pcm
• Two double bedrooms with fitted wardrobes
• Second floor apartment which
• Walking distance to mainline train station to London
Gross yield of 5.4%
£225,000
can be access via lift or stairs
Apartment 3, The Old Post Office, Moreton in Marsh • Open-plan kitchen and living room
• Current rent value of £975 pcm
• Two double bedrooms with fitted wardrobes
• EPC - D
• Covered parking • Walking distance to mainline train station to London
*All rental values and subsequent yields are only estimates unless tenanted and subject to market fluctuations.
Gross yield of 5.0%
£230,000
Sheldon Bosley Knight is delighted to offer an off-market, exclusive opportunity of either individual plots or multiple unit discounted packages from developer David Wilson Homes. With various property styles there is plenty to suit your investment needs. > Luxury three- and four-bedroom homes at Heritage Grange located just a short drive from Leamington Spa and Warwick. > Built within 14.3 acres of green space, enjoy scenic walks and a family-friendly play area. > Energy efficient homes with solar panels and EV car charging points. > 20-minute drive to Leamington Spa and Warwick town centres with a regular bus service available. > Close to the M40 motorway with easy links to Birmingham and Oxford. > Discover countryside living with city convenience. *Discounts and exclusive multiple unit packages are only available via Sheldon Bosley Knight and not direct with David Wilson Homes.
For more information please contact Jack Richardson and the
New Homes Team on 01789 333 466
The land is located on the edge of the village of Stretton on Fosse, approximately 2.5 miles southwest of Shipston on Stour, and 3.5 miles north of Moreton in Marsh. Access The land is accessed directly from Tankards Hill, Stretton on Fosse. Buildings The buildings comprise an openfronted brick equestrian shelter with an attached stable used for feed and hay storage, all enclosed within ring fencing and accessed via a metal gate. In addition, there is a separately fenced hard-standing area at the entrance to the land, providing secure parking and gated access through to the main field.
Location
Services A water connection is present to a trough on the land. The Agent has not tested the services and Buyers must rely on their own due diligence.
A public footpath runs north-south across the centre of the land, and an overhead cable is present. Designations The land is located in a Nitrate To Zone follow Bosley Knight on socials click here Vulnerable forSheldon surface water. Soil Type The land is classified as Grade 3 agricultural land, and the soils are slowly permeable, seasonally wet, slightly acid but base-rich loamy and clayey soils (Soilscape 18). Sporting, Timber, and Mineral Rights The sporting, timber, and mineral rights insofar as they exist are included in the Freehold sale.
Plan
Tenure and Possession The land is sold Freehold with Vacant Possession available upon completion. Title Number WK384567. Rural Payments Agency No entitlements are included in the sale. Buyer's must rely on their own due diligence.
Land Hill, off Stretton Tankards Hill, Stretton on GL56 Fosse f Tankards on Fosse, Warwickshire, • 5.23 acres of Grade 3 pastureland • Open-fronted brick shelter with separate brick stable
• A water connection is present via a trough
• Self-enclosed hard standing area for parking and Shipston-on-Stour
• Perfect as a pony paddock or alternative uses (STPP)
£120,000
For further information please call 01608 661666 (option 3) or email rural@sheldonbosleyknight.co.uk
Location
Plan
Far Field, Fosse Way, Shipston-on-Stour • Redundant agricultural buildings extending to approximately 1,800 square feet • 8.26 acres of Grade 3 pastureland with excellent road frontage
• Excellent connections to surrounding towns such as Moreton-in-Marsh and Shipston-on-Stour • Suitable for amenity or other alternative uses STPP
*All rental values and subsequent yields are only estimates unless tenanted and subject to market fluctuations.
For further information please email rural@sheldonbosleyknight.co.uk
£200,000
agricultural or non-equestrian use. The overage agreement is dated purchase this property you will be required to produce photographic identification and a utility bill for your current address 15th December 2020.
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Plan
Plan is for indicative purposes.
Plan is for indicative purposes.
Land at Cleeve Prior, Evesham
Cleeve Prior, Evesham Road, Evesham,WR11 8JZ • 21.82 acres (8.83 ha) of Grade 3 pastureland For further information please email rural@sheldonbosleyknight.co.uk
£450,000
• Located within the village of Cleeve Prior • Direct road access form Evesham Road • Potential for development; subject to planning
Forest Road, Loughborough • Development potential STPP
• Current rent £20,000 per annum
• Investment opportunity
• 255m2 (2,739.81 Sq Ft)
• Centrally located close to the town centre
• EPC - D
• Large car park
*All rental values and subsequent yields are only estimates unless tenanted and subject to market fluctuations.
Gross yield of 2.9%
£600,000
FORMER GARDEN NURSERY SALE To follow Sheldon Bosley Knight on socials click here
MER GARDEN NURSERY SALE
INSTER NURSERIES, STATION ROAD, BLACKMINSTER, EVESHAM WR11 7TF Plan is for indicative purposes
NURSERIES, STATION ROAD, BLACKMINSTER, GUIDE PRICE BLACKMINSTER EVESHAM, WR11 7TF £650,000 FORMER GARDEN NURSERY SALE Plan is for indicative purposes
Plan is for indicative purposes
Plan is for indicative purposes
Blackminster Nurseries, Evesham • Former Garden Nurseries with potential for redevelopment; subject to planning
£650,000
• Extending to approximately 8.7 acres (3.52 ha) • Accessed off of Station Road via a track
DISCLAIMER These particulars do not form part of any offer or contract and must not be relied upon. The Purchaser shall be deemed to have satisfied themselves as to the description and boundaries of the property. Any error or mis-statement shall not annul the sale. The plans, measurements, text and photographs are for identification purposes only.
Development land south of Banbury Road, Ettington • Residential development opportunity • Outline planning permission for up to 21 dwellings • Eight open market dwellings and 13 self-build and custom-build
• For sale by Private Treaty offers to be submitted to Charles Davis 07915 397008 or Daniel Jackson 07809 563691
*All rental values and subsequent yields are only estimates unless tenanted and subject to market fluctuations.
£2,500,000
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Wood Street, Stratford-upon-Avon
reet,• Prominent Stratford-Upon-Avon, CV37 6JF high street location • Investment opportunity • Gross internal area: 434m (46,802 sq ft) • Passing rental value: £47,000 per annum • Leased to a national covenant
• Development potential (STP) • Stratford town centre • Freehold • EPC - D
Gross yield of 6.1%
£770,000
Main Street, Tiddington Road, Stratford-upon-Avon • Planning permission granted to split flat into two, one-bedroom flats
• Current rental £20,000 per annum • Part exchange considered
• Highly desirable location • Residential accommodation to be vacant upon sale
*All rental values and subsequent yields are only estimates unless tenanted and subject to market fluctuations.
Gross yield of 2.4%
£825,000
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