From Monday 13th July 2026, a range of court and tribunal fees increased across England and Wales following the Government’s annual review of HM Courts & Tribunals Service fees.
At first glance, many of the increases appear relatively small.
Continue reading Landlord Court Fees Have Increased: What Does This Mean for You?The HHSRS now assesses 21 potential hazards that could affect tenants’ health and safety. The standards haven’t changed—but the way councils assess and enforce them has.
On 23rd June 2026, the Government introduced an updated Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) – the framework used by local authorities to assess health and safety hazards in privately rented homes.
Continue reading HHSRS Changes 2026 – Why Routine Property Inspections Matter More Than Ever for Kent LandlordsWhen the Renters’ Rights Act came into force on 1st May 2026, Section 21 was officially abolished.
For many landlords, this immediately raised a worrying question:
Continue reading Section 8 Grounds Replacing Section 21 – What’s ChangedSince the Renters’ Rights Act came into force on 1st May 2026, we’ve received more questions about tenant notice periods than almost any other aspect of the new legislation.
Continue reading Renters’ Rights Act Notice Periods: One Month or Two? What Kent Landlords Need to KnowThe upcoming changes under the Renters’ Rights Act are fast approaching, and with a confirmed start date of 1st May, we’re now seeing the government take significant steps to ensure the new legislation is properly enforced.
Continue reading Landlords Urged to Act as Council Enforcement Powers IncreaseThe lettings landscape is shifting again and for many landlords, 2026 is already presenting a new set of challenges.
With borrowing costs rising and rental growth beginning to stabilise, we’re seeing a change in the balance that landlords have benefited from over recent years. At the same time, the upcoming Renters’ Rights Act is adding another layer of uncertainty.
Continue reading Rising Costs, Slowing Rents: What Kent Landlords Need to Know in 2026At Lifeboat Lettings, a big part of our role is helping landlords stay informed, compliant and confident about what’s coming next in the lettings landscape. One topic that’s been generating a lot of questions recently, including during our latest landlord webinar is Making Tax Digital (MTD) for Income Tax.
Making Tax Digital is being introduced in stages between April 2026 and April 2028, and while it won’t affect every landlord straight away, it will eventually impact most unincorporated landlords earning £20,000 or more from property or self-employment.
Continue reading Making Tax Digital for Landlords: What’s Changing, When It Affects You, and How to PrepareHappy New Year from all of us at Lifeboat Lettings.
As we step into 2026, the lettings landscape is set for one of the most significant transition periods we’ve seen in years. With major reforms approaching and energy standards still firmly in focus, this year will be about preparation, clarity and staying ahead of key changes.
Our commitment remains the same, to guide landlords through every step with practical advice, clear timelines and steady support as the industry evolves.
Continue reading Looking Ahead to 2026The Autumn Budget delivered by Rachel Reeves has sparked plenty of conversation across the property sector — and understandably so. While the headlines may appear broad, the impact on landlords, particularly here in Kent, is very real.
Continue reading Budget 2025 – What the Latest Announcements Mean for Landlords in KentWith the Renters’ Rights Act now moving into its rollout phase, we finally have confirmation of when the first set of changes will come into force. Phase One begins on 1st May 2026, followed by Phase Two in late 2026 and a future Phase Three expected after further consultation.
Continue reading The One Document You Must Give All Tenants Before April
