Michael Gove MP, Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, is now considering an amendment to the Renters (Reform) Bill introduced into Parliament on 17 May 2023, according to an article in The Telegraph.

An amendment to this would be expected to allow landlords to guarantee vacant possession for the next cohort of students and to retain their yearly let business model. A specific clause would then be added to the Bill for privately let student property.

A government spokesperson stated they will continue to engage on these measures to ensure things work for both parties, as they feel the vast majority of students move out at the end of the academic year and will not be impacted.

The Higher Education Policy Institute has also issued a statement, voicing concerns that, while abolishing fixed-term tenancy agreements does provide greater flexibility for students, it comes at the risk of creating student homelessness, housing instability, increased rental prices and further mental health challenges.

The Institute also recommends that provision is made for ‘off-street’ student accommodation to be given the same exemption from the abolition of fixed-term tenancy agreements as has been provided for purpose-built student accommodation.