Forum to shine a spotlight on the private rented sector in Ashford

Private sector landlords are being urged to attend a conference in Ashford which will shine a light on topics which promise to shape their industry for many years to come.

The Renters Reform Bill, the future of green domestic heating, making homes more energy efficient and a host of other hot topics are contained in a packed agenda for the dozens of landlords expected to attend this free event.

The forum is being organised by Ashford Borough Council in partnership with the National Residential Landlord Association. Formerly a regular fixture in the Ashford calendar, this event has been held online during the pandemic and this is the first time it has become a ‘face to face’ event in three years.

The conference, which is sponsored by Swale Heating (now known as Sureserve Compliance South), will be held at the Ashford International Hotel on Wednesday 28 September between 10am and 3.30pm, and includes lunch.

Packed programme

After a welcome and introduction by Ashford Borough Council’s Head of Housing Sharon Williams, landlords will be updated on the MEES Regulations. They mean that any privately rented property with an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) lower than ‘E’ cannot be rented out to tenants. 

Landlords will also learn more about the potential benefits of getting involved in the Sustainable Warmth Scheme, which aims to improve energy efficiency in domestic properties.

Ears are certain to be pricked when details of a flexible package of financial incentives for private sector landlords are outlined by Ashford Borough Council, plus an overview of the full range of services the council can offer landlords in the borough of Ashford.

The white paper Renters Reform Bill was published in June 2022 covering Government proposals to create a fairer private rented sector for both landlords and tenants through a 12 point plan which sets out clear actions to reform the industry. Officials from the Department of Levelling Up, Housing & Communities will be on hand to explain more.

After lunch a leading Kent barrister will provide a guide to navigating the court process which is sure to lead to lots of note taking, before a presentation on preparing for a greener future by event sponsor Swale Heating, a leading independent heating services supplier in the county.

Marion Money from the National Residential Landlords Association then takes the delegates through the latest news from within the sector before the forum comes to a close.
 
Landlords have until 16 September to reserve a free place at the conference online.