Now a date for the General Election has been set, the Renters (Reform) Bill has expired with the proroguing and effective dissolution of parliament.

It could have been passed, but the 12 amendments tabled by the Lords meant the government simply ran out of time in the ‘wash-up’ period. Ironically, the Lords were presenting these amendments as the Prime Minister made his announcement.

Regardless of whoever wins the next election, any Bill will have to start again from the beginning. There is cross party consensus that reform is needed, and all agree that section 21 should be abolished.

The shadow Housing Minister has said she would abolish section 21 of the 1988 Housing Act, so called ‘no fault evictions’, on day one of a Labour administration. If you take that literally, Angela Rayner would be in breach of that pledge on day two of government as there is no mechanism in place to do so. It will require legislation.

We and the vast majority of the industry have tirelessly supported reform and have worked very hard to get the Bill over the line. We support a fairer rented sector for both tenants and landlords as without the latter, there wouldn’t be a private rented sector.

Many agree that the previous Renters (Reform) Bill was poorly drafted and created a lot of unintended consequences so hopefully these issues can be addressed for the benefit of tenants whilst supporting landlord’s interests. Make no mistake, reform is coming and we, as one of the largest letting agency groups in the country, will be at the forefront of influencing policy.

The vast majority of landlords provide excellent quality accommodation, however there is a rogue element who do not. It is these landlords we need to target and not punish the good landlords. This will only be possible through effective enforcement by local authorities and trading standards.

* Eric Walker is managing director of TPFG brand, Martin & Co *