Clem Woodward Lettings

Sat 07 Nov 2026

Update from Clem & Lorraine Woodward

Looking Ahead to 2027

Dear Landlords, Tenants, Commercial Occupiers and Professional Partners,

As we approach the end of another remarkable year, it is fair to say that 2026 has been one of the most significant periods of change the property sector has experienced in recent years.

For us at Clem Woodward Lettings, it has been a year of growth, adaptation and investment. We have expanded our team, welcomed new colleagues, experienced staff changes, refined our systems and procedures, and continued to evolve alongside an increasingly regulated and professionalised property industry. The pace of change across both the residential and commercial sectors has been substantial, and we anticipate much of the same during 2027.

With that in mind, we wanted to take this opportunity to share some of our observations on the market, highlight key developments affecting property owners and occupiers, and look ahead to what the coming year may bring.

Residential Lettings: Demand Remains Exceptionally Strong

Across the South West, rental demand continues to outstrip supply. Whilst the market has become slightly more balanced than the extraordinary post-pandemic period, available stock remains well below historic levels and tenant demand remains extremely robust.

Recent data from Rightmove shows that average advertised rents outside London have reached a record high of £1,418 per calendar month, with annual rental growth of 2.4%. Rightmove also reports that the number of available rental homes remains constrained despite demand stabilising.

Similarly, Zoopla reports average UK rents have increased by 2.6% over the last year to £1,343 per month, with rental supply falling once again and competition for available homes increasing. Zoopla expects rental growth of between 4% and 5% by the end of 2026.

Closer to home, Office for National Statistics data indicates that rents across the South West increased by approximately 4.5% over the previous 12 months, outperforming the national average.

The message remains clear: there are simply not enough homes available to satisfy demand.

Rent Reviews Must Be Evidence-Based

While rents continue to rise across much of the region, the process by which landlords increase rents has fundamentally changed.

Under the new legislative framework introduced through the Renters' Rights reforms, rent increases must be capable of being justified against current market evidence. Landlords can no longer rely solely on historic increases or contractual review clauses. Evidence of comparable local properties, market conditions and current rental demand will become increasingly important in supporting any proposed increase.

For landlords, this highlights the importance of obtaining regular rental valuations and ensuring rents remain aligned with the open market, rather than allowing larger adjustments to accumulate over time.

The Renters' Rights Act: The Biggest Change for a Generation

The implementation of the Renters' Rights legislation marks one of the most significant changes to the private rented sector in decades.

The move away from traditional Assured Shorthold Tenancies towards periodic tenancies, together with strengthened enforcement powers for local authorities, places greater emphasis on compliance, documentation and property management standards.

Landlords should also be aware of the forthcoming national landlord database, which is expected to become an important part of the sector's regulatory framework.

Whilst we will continue to assist and guide our clients wherever possible, responsibility will ultimately rest with landlords to ensure registration and compliance obligations are met. As further details emerge, we will continue to provide updates and practical guidance.

Commercial Property: Opportunities and Challenges

The commercial property market continues to present a mixed picture.

Occupier demand remains strong for well-located and realistically priced premises. However, tenants remain increasingly cost-conscious due to inflationary pressures, staffing costs and wider economic uncertainty.

We continue to see healthy levels of enquiry for smaller retail, office and mixed-use properties throughout Somerset and the wider South West. However, transaction times are often longer than in previous years, with increased due diligence and more detailed negotiations becoming commonplace.

Successful landlords are often those who remain flexible, realistic and focused on securing long-term occupancy rather than simply achieving headline rental figures.

The Autumn Budget and Landlords

The recent Autumn Budget has introduced further considerations for property owners and investors. Industry commentators have highlighted increasing tax and regulatory burdens for landlords, alongside wider housing market reforms.

From our perspective, the cumulative effect of recent legislative and taxation changes is unlikely to encourage significant new investment into the private rented sector.

Instead, many landlords are likely to:

Retain existing properties and adopt a "wait and see" approach.
Review portfolio performance more carefully.
Delay further acquisitions.
Consider selective disposals where yields are under pressure.

Whilst some rental properties will inevitably be sold, ongoing demand from tenants remains extremely high. Unless significant additional rental stock enters the market, supply shortages are likely to persist, continuing to place upward pressure on rents.

Looking Forward to 2027

All indicators suggest that 2027 will bring further change, continued regulation and ongoing pressure on rental supply.

However, the fundamentals of the South West market remain exceptionally strong:

Tenant demand remains high.
Rental values continue to show growth.
Quality housing stock remains in short supply.
Well-managed commercial property continues to attract occupiers.
Professional landlords remain vital to meeting housing demand.

At Clem Woodward Lettings, we remain committed to helping our clients navigate these changes, maximise returns, remain compliant and make informed decisions within an increasingly complex marketplace.

Finally, we would like to thank all of our landlords, tenants, commercial occupiers and professional partners for their continued support throughout 2026. We look forward to working with you throughout 2027 and beyond.

Kind regards,

Clem & Lorraine Woodward
Clem Woodward Lettings

Property. People. Expertise.

Winter Property Care: Keeping Your Home Warm, Safe and Comfortable This Season

As the colder weather arrives across Taunton and the surrounding Somerset villages, winter can place additional strain on both homes and heating systems. A little preparation now can help avoid inconvenience later and ensure your property remains warm, comfortable and well maintained throughout the winter months. At Clem Woodward Lettings, we see many seasonal maintenance issues each year, and most can be prevented through a few simple measures.

Managing Condensation and Damp

Condensation is one of the most common property issues during the winter. As temperatures drop outside, warm air inside the home naturally settles on colder surfaces such as windows, external walls and corners of rooms. Over time, excess moisture can lead to mould growth, unpleasant odours and damage to décor.

One of the best ways to reduce condensation is to ensure your home remains properly ventilated, even during colder weather. Opening windows for short periods each day, using extractor fans when cooking or showering, and allowing air to circulate around furniture can make a significant difference. It may seem counterintuitive, but a well-ventilated home is often easier and more cost-effective to heat than one trapping excess moisture.

Looking After Your Heating System

During the winter months, your boiler works harder than at any other time of year. If you notice a loss of heating or hot water, unusual noises, low pressure or any performance issues, it is always better to report them early before a minor fault develops into a larger repair.

If you are away from the property for a few days during the colder months, we recommend leaving the heating on at a low background temperature rather than turning it off completely. This helps protect both the heating system and pipework during periods of freezing weather.

Protecting Against Frozen Pipes

Freezing temperatures can cause water within pipework to expand, potentially resulting in burst pipes and significant water damage. While prolonged freezes are less common in Somerset than some other parts of the country, severe cold snaps can still occur.

Knowing where your stopcock is located can save valuable time in the event of an emergency. If you notice reduced water flow, frozen pipes or any signs of a leak, please contact us as soon as possible so the issue can be addressed before further damage occurs.

Drying Clothes During Winter

With fewer opportunities to dry washing outdoors, many households naturally dry clothes inside during the winter months. However, wet washing can release a considerable amount of moisture into the air, contributing to condensation problems.

Where possible, use a tumble dryer or ensure rooms are well ventilated whilst clothes are drying. Avoid placing wet laundry directly on radiators, as this can increase moisture levels throughout the property and make condensation issues more likely.

Report Problems Early

Winter weather can quickly turn small property concerns into much larger ones. A minor leak, a slipped roof tile, a faulty extractor fan or a dripping pipe may seem insignificant at first, but can become more problematic during periods of heavy rain, frost or strong winds.

If you notice any maintenance concerns, please let us know at the earliest opportunity. Prompt reporting often allows repairs to be completed more quickly whilst preventing additional damage and disruption.

A Final Winter Reminder

Our goal is to ensure every tenant enjoys a safe, comfortable and well-maintained home throughout the year. By keeping your property well ventilated, adequately heated and reporting any concerns promptly, you can help prevent many of the common issues associated with the winter season.

Should you require assistance, advice or wish to report a maintenance issue, the Clem Woodward Lettings team is always happy to help.

A warm, dry and well-ventilated home is not only more comfortable during winter, but also healthier and more economical to run throughout the colder months.

Landlord Focus: Compliance, Standards and Protecting Your Investment

If there is one clear trend emerging from 2026, it is the continued professionalisation of the private rented sector.

The days of simply collecting rent and dealing with occasional maintenance are increasingly behind us. Today, successful landlords are those who treat their property portfolio as a long-term business, supported by robust compliance procedures, proactive maintenance and a commitment to providing safe, high-quality homes.

The introduction of the Renters' Rights reforms, together with the evolving regulatory landscape, means landlords are now facing greater scrutiny than ever before. Local authorities are being granted enhanced enforcement powers, whilst expectations around property condition, record keeping and tenant communication continue to increase.

Whilst these changes undoubtedly create additional responsibilities, they also present opportunities. Landlords who invest in maintaining their properties and staying ahead of legislative requirements are often rewarded with stronger tenant demand, reduced void periods, longer tenancies and fewer costly disputes.

Proactive Maintenance Remains Key

One area where landlords can continue to make a significant difference is preventative maintenance.

Many of the more expensive repairs we encounter arise not from major structural defects, but from smaller issues that have been left unaddressed for too long. Regular inspections, timely servicing of boilers and heating systems, and attention to items such as roofing, guttering, ventilation and drainage can often prevent substantial future costs.

As we move into the winter months, ensuring heating systems are serviced, smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are functioning correctly, and any signs of damp or water ingress are investigated promptly can help protect both the property and the tenant's wellbeing.

Energy Efficiency Continues To Matter

Although future EPC requirements remain a subject of ongoing government consultation and debate, energy efficiency continues to be an important consideration for both landlords and tenants.

Properties that are warmer, cheaper to run and more energy efficient are increasingly attractive to prospective tenants. Improvements such as modern insulation, efficient heating systems, LED lighting and upgraded glazing can not only improve tenant satisfaction but may also enhance long-term asset value.

Many tenants now actively consider running costs alongside monthly rent when choosing a home, making energy performance an increasingly important factor in marketing and tenant retention.

Communication Creates Better Tenancies

One consistent theme we see across our portfolio is that the most successful tenancies are usually built on clear and professional communication from the outset.

Prompt responses to maintenance concerns, realistic expectations on both sides, and regular dialogue throughout the tenancy can help prevent misunderstandings and encourage longer-term occupation.

In a market where retaining good tenants is often more cost-effective than replacing them, fostering positive landlord-tenant relationships continues to deliver benefits for all parties involved.

Our Advice For 2027

As we look ahead, our advice to landlords remains relatively simple:

Keep compliance documentation up to date.
Review rental values regularly against the local market.
Address maintenance issues proactively rather than reactively.
Budget for ongoing improvements and future regulatory changes.
Seek professional advice where legislation or compliance requirements are unclear.

Whilst regulation may continue to increase, well-presented and professionally managed properties remain in exceptionally high demand across Taunton, Somerset and the wider South West. Landlords who remain informed, adaptable and proactive are likely to be best placed to navigate the changes ahead and maximise the long-term performance of their investments.

Taunton Rental Market Update – Winter 2026

The Taunton rental market continues to demonstrate remarkable resilience as we head towards 2027. Despite ongoing legislative changes and increasing costs for landlords, demand for good-quality rental accommodation remains exceptionally strong across Taunton and the wider Somerset area.

Demand Continues To Outweigh Supply

Nationally, the rental market remains undersupplied. Recent research from Zoopla shows that the number of homes available to rent is now 3% lower than a year ago, whilst the flow of new rental properties coming to the market has fallen by 6%. Competition amongst tenants has increased again, with an average of 5.3 enquiries received for every available rental property. [zoopla.co.uk], [assets.ctfassets.net]

Closer to home, this is reflected throughout Taunton, where well-presented properties continue to attract strong interest, particularly in the one, two and three-bedroom sectors.

What Are Properties Achieving?

Current market data suggests the average advertised rent across Taunton now stands at approximately £1,344 per calendar month, with the majority of available homes letting between £1,000 and £2,000 pcm. [home.co.uk]

Typical advertised rents currently include:

1-bedroom properties: approximately £900-£950 pcm
2-bedroom properties: approximately £1,100-£1,200 pcm
3-bedroom properties: approximately £1,350-£1,450 pcm
4-bedroom properties: approximately £1,900 pcm+ [home.co.uk], [dwellio.co.uk]

Properties that are clean, well-maintained, energy efficient and realistically priced continue to achieve the strongest levels of enquiry and secure tenants most quickly.

Rental Growth Remains Positive

Whilst the extraordinary rental growth seen immediately after the pandemic has moderated, rents continue to rise steadily.

According to the Office for National Statistics, private rents across the South West increased by approximately 4.5% over the previous 12 months, outperforming many other parts of the country. [rentincrea...tice.co.uk]

Meanwhile, Zoopla reports that average UK rents have increased by 2.6% year-on-year to £1,343 pcm, and forecasts rental growth of between 4% and 5% by the end of 2026 due to ongoing supply shortages. [zoopla.co.uk], [assets.ctfassets.net]

The Importance of Staying Competitive

Although demand remains high, tenants are increasingly conscious of value for money. Properties that offer:

Modern kitchens and bathrooms
Good EPC ratings
Fibre broadband availability
Off-road parking
Outside space
Well-presented décor

continue to outperform competing stock and often secure longer tenancies. In an increasingly regulated market, retaining a good tenant is becoming more valuable than ever.

Our Outlook For 2027

From our perspective, all indicators suggest the key fundamentals of the Taunton rental market remain strong:

Demand continues to exceed supply.
New rental stock remains limited.
Rental values remain on an upward trajectory.
Professional management and compliance are becoming increasingly important.
Quality homes continue to attract quality tenants.

Whilst legislative change will undoubtedly remain a major talking point throughout 2027, the underlying need for private rented housing across Taunton and Somerset shows no signs of slowing. For well-prepared landlords with well-maintained properties, the outlook remains positive.

At Clem Woodward Lettings, we continue to see strong enquiry levels across our portfolio and remain committed to helping landlords maximise returns, remain compliant and navigate an increasingly complex but fundamentally strong rental market.

What's On This Winter Across Taunton & Somerset? ��❄️

Winter is one of the most enjoyable times of year in Somerset, with festive markets, light switch-ons, family attractions and seasonal events taking place across the county. Whether you're based in Taunton, Wellington, North Curry, Bridgwater, Langport, Ilminster or the surrounding villages, there is plenty to enjoy this festive season.

�� Festive Workshops at Hestercombe

12th - 19th November 2026

Just outside Taunton, Hestercombe will once again be hosting a variety of popular Christmas workshops including willow reindeer making, festive wreaths, lino printing and seasonal crafts, all set within one of Somerset's most beautiful historic gardens. [allevents.in]

�� Taunton WinterFest 2026 & Christmas Lights Switch-On

Sunday 22nd November 2026 Taunton Town Centre

One of the region's largest festive events returns with Christmas market stalls, live entertainment, family attractions, street food, fairground rides and the annual lights switch-on at 6pm. A fantastic day out in the heart of Taunton. [visitsomerset.co.uk], [whensthaton.co.uk], [thewestlist.co.uk]

⛸️ Somerset Winter Wonderland

20th November – 24th December 2026 Somerset County Cricket Club, Taunton

Back by popular demand, Winter Wonderland will transform the County Ground into a festive destination featuring:

A larger undercover ice rink
Santa's Grotto
Festive food village
Indoor Après Winter Bar
Funfair rides and attractions
Christmas entertainment throughout the season

A wonderful attraction for families from across Somerset. [tickettailor.com], [somersetco...tycc.co.uk], [allevents.in]

��️ Explore Somerset's Christmas Markets

Many of Somerset's market towns host their own festive events throughout November and December. If you're looking for local gifts, independent businesses and seasonal food, keep an eye out for Christmas markets in:

Taunton
Wellington
Bridgwater
Langport
Ilminster
Frome
Wells

These events are always a great way to support local businesses while getting into the Christmas spirit.

�� Christmas Concerts & Seasonal Performances

Across Somerset's churches, theatres and community venues you'll find a packed programme of festive performances throughout December.

Highlights include the The Christmas Orchestra at Taunton Minster, alongside carol services, community choirs, pantomimes and seasonal concerts taking place throughout the county. [tauntonminster.org]

�� Winter Walks Across Somerset

For those preferring a quieter pace, winter is a wonderful time to enjoy Somerset's countryside.

Popular local walks include:

The Quantock Hills
The Blackdown Hills
Ham Hill Country Park
The Levels & Moors
Waterside walks at French Weir Park and along the Bridgwater & Taunton Canal

A crisp winter morning followed by a pub lunch remains one of Somerset's greatest pleasures.

�� Festive Food, Pubs & Local Hospitality

The run-up to Christmas is also one of the busiest times for Somerset's hospitality sector. Many local pubs, restaurants and hotels offer festive menus, Christmas lunches and seasonal events throughout November and December.

We always encourage supporting the fantastic independent businesses that make Taunton and Somerset such a wonderful place to live and work.

A Winter Message from Clem Woodward Lettings

As we move towards the festive season, we hope everyone finds time to enjoy some of the wonderful events, attractions and communities that make Somerset so special.

Whether you're visiting WinterFest in Taunton, shopping at a local Christmas market, enjoying a countryside walk or spending time with family and friends, we wish all of our landlords, tenants, contractors and professional partners a happy, healthy and enjoyable winter season.

Here's to a successful end to 2026 and an exciting year ahead in 2027. ��✨

Team Update

As part of our continued growth throughout 2026, we have been pleased to welcome three new team members across the business, further strengthening our lettings, maintenance and finance departments.

Toby has joined the lettings team as a Junior Lettings Negotiator, bringing a background in communications and digital media sklls.

Katherine has joined as our Maintenance Manager, drawing on her experience in marketing and customer relations to help oversee our growing maintenance department.

Reuben joined us in August as a Junior Finance Assistant, bringing with him a strong customer-focused background from the aquatics and leisure sector.

With one new team member joining each department, these appointments reflect our ongoing investment in delivering the best possible service to our landlords, tenants and clients as the business continues to grow.

We are delighted to have them all on board and look forward to seeing them develop their careers with Clem Woodward Lettings. ��✨

Thank You

As we bring this Winter Newsletter to a close, we would like to extend our sincere thanks to all of our landlords, tenants, commercial occupiers, contractors and professional partners for your continued support throughout 2026.

This year has brought significant change across the property industry, and whilst the pace of legislative reform shows little sign of slowing, we remain committed to helping our clients navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead with confidence.

Whether you're a landlord considering your next investment decision, a tenant seeking advice, or a local business looking for commercial premises, our team is here to help.

Get in Touch

�� Thinking about letting your property? Contact us for a free, no-obligation rental valuation.

�� Reviewing your portfolio for 2027? Speak to our team about current market conditions, compliance requirements and maximising returns.

�� Need advice on maintenance, licensing or property upgrades? We're happy to help.

�� Looking for commercial premises or professional property advice? Get in touch with our experienced team.

Property. People. Expertise.

�� Taunton, Somerset
�� 01823 330333
�� [email protected]
�� www.clemwoodward.co.uk