The survey found that 77 per cent of property investors do not expect the proposed changes to planning regulations to have a positive effect on their buy-to-let operations

Fewer than one in four landlords in the UK believe that planning reform will benefit their businesses, according to new research by specialist buy-to-let lender Landbay.

The survey found that 77 per cent of property investors do not expect the proposed changes to planning regulations to have a positive effect on their buy-to-let operations.

Only 13 per cent of respondents indicated that relaxed planning rules might create more opportunities to acquire new-build properties. Just 9 per cent felt that planning reform could support job creation and economic growth through increased demand for rental accommodation.

If property investors are not convinced planning reform will positively affect their business, we’re in real trouble, said Rob Stanton, sales and distribution director at Landbay.

Landlords are an important stakeholder in the planning system and the wider housing market, driving the conversion of properties to HMOs, refits and extensions – not to mention a chunk of new-build housing. So this level of scepticism and cynicism surrounding proposed reforms to our planning system is absolutely damning, he added.

Nearly half of those surveyed (47 per cent) said that planning reform alone would not resolve the housing crisis, pointing to the persistent shortage of skilled workers in construction as a significant barrier to building new homes at the required rate.

For mortgage brokers, widespread landlord scepticism towards planning reform suggests limited growth in buy-to-let lending linked to new-builds or property conversions. Brokers may see fewer opportunities arising from planning changes, as investor demand is unlikely to increase unless broader issues—such as construction skills shortages—are addressed. Staying informed on policy developments and client sentiment will be essential for brokers navigating this uncertain environment.