The Property Franchise Group (TPFG) has identified the Renters’ Rights Act as a potential growth driver, reporting increased enquiries from landlords seeking professional property management services ahead of the legislation’s implementation.
In a trading update ahead of its AGM, the company, which owns the Belvoir and Martin & Co franchises, stated it expects the Act’s implementation in May 2026 to increase regulatory and operational demands on self-managed landlords.
Regulatory burden drives enquiries
“The Board expects the implementation of the Renters’ Rights Act in May 2026 to increase the regulatory and operational burden on self-managed landlords, creating a meaningful opportunity for professionally managed operators such as TPFG,” the group said in its statement.
Chief Executive Gareth Samples noted the company is receiving enquiries from self-managed landlords seeking support with compliance and property management. The board described this as a medium-term growth opportunity for the franchise network.
The development follows landlords tightening tenant selection following the new Act, as the sector adjusts to forthcoming regulatory changes. Earlier this month, more than two million landlords and their agents were warned they could face £7,000 fines for failing to provide tenants with a mandatory information sheet required under the Renters’ Rights Act.
Freedom of Information data revealed a significant gap between the numbers downloading the mandatory document and the total number of landlords operating in the market.
Financial performance
TPFG reported adjusted profit before tax rose to £31 million in 2024, up 39% from £22.3 million in 2023. Group revenue increased 25% to £84.3 million, compared to £67.3 million the previous year.
The company acquired a controlling stake in a financial services company linked to the Mortgage Advice Bureau in January, expanding its mortgage advisers team to more than 300.
The trend reflects broader challenges facing the rental sector, with fragmented data systems increasing costs for landlords and regulatory compliance becoming more complex. As landlord rental income rises 23% while arrears affect 850,000 tenants, the sector faces competing pressures from both regulatory requirements and market conditions.
The Renters’ Rights Act represents one of the most significant changes to the private rental sector in recent years, with implications for how landlords manage their properties and interact with tenants.
