Weds 28th October 2026
At this morning’s Wealden Business Group breakfast meeting, Mark Henderson, founder of Henderson’s Lettings & Management, delivered an essential and practical briefing on the major regulatory upheaval reshaping England’s private rented sector. Drawing on over two decades of property experience and operating from Bethersden near Ashford, Mark’s family-run agency provides dedicated letting and management services across Ashford, Tenterden, Folkestone, and the wider Kent and East Sussex region. Mark opened by reviewing the landmark Phase 1 reforms introduced under the Renters’ Rights Act in May 2026, which abolished Section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions, transitioned all Assured Shorthold Tenancies into rolling periodic agreements, and enacted strict new rules around annual rent increases, rental bidding bans, and tenant rights regarding pets and non-discrimination.
Turning to Phase 2 readiness, Mark highlighted the forthcoming measures that landlords and property professionals must urgently prepare for. Chief among these is the new National Private Rented Sector (PRS) Database—a central digital register storing ownership, property specifications, and vital compliance certificates such as Gas Safety, EPCs, and EICRs, scheduled for regional rollout from late 2026 to enhance local council oversight. Furthermore, Mark outlined the introduction of the mandatory PRS Landlord Ombudsman scheme, an independent dispute-resolution body funded by landlord membership fees that aims to resolve repair and tenancy complaints swiftly outside the courtroom before scaling toward full implementation by 2028. His core message to property owners was clear: proactively audit safety certification, ensure all records are immaculate, and adapt standard tenancy procedures well ahead of statutory enforcement.
Navigating complex regulatory shifts like the Renters’ Rights Act highlights why proactive, face-to-face networking is so indispensable for business owners across the Weald. Presentations like Mark’s not only arm attendees with front-line commercial intelligence, but they also connect members with reputable local specialists they can trust. Whether you are a property investor, tradesperson, or professional services provider, visiting a Wednesday morning Wealden Business Group meeting in Tenterden is an ideal way to expand your commercial network, exchange high-value referrals, and stay ahead of critical industry developments – making now the perfect time to book a guest visit or explore membership.
You can see Mark’s presentation below:
