Suzanne Smith collaboration

The Mortgage Works has teamed up with Suzanne Smith, founder of The Independent Landlord, to bring you an article series to share practical tips and advice on how to be a good landlord in 2026 and beyond.

Women in property: how far we've come

A century ago, married women couldn’t legally own property. Today, they make up half of all landlords in England. That’s progress worth celebrating.

The Mortgage Works asked Suzanne Smith, founder of The Independent Landlord to write about how far women have come in property. This article recognises the women who are redefining what it means to be a landlord in 2026.

How far we've come



A guide to prepare landlords for the new EPC rules

The government announced details of their new Warm Homes Plan in January 2026, which has significant implications for private landlords in England and Wales. Upcoming EPC rule changes impact more than 50% of UK landlords.

Our guide explains what’s changing, when it comes into effect, and how you can prepare. Created with Suzanne Smith, it highlights the key steps to stay compliant and plan with confidence.

Download the EPC guide



Webinar: Navigating the Private Rented Sector in 2026

We hosted an exclusive webinar with Suzanne Smith, designed to help you stay informed on new regulations and evolving requirements coming to the private rented sector in 2026.

Catch up on the latest practical insights on the year ahead, including:

  • key changes from the recent Renter's Rights Act
  • the latest on EPC requirements and what they mean for landlords
  • what you need to know about making tax digital

Watch the Navigating the Private Rented Sector in 2026 webinar

Download the webinar slides



A landlord's guide to fraud prevention

Fraud is an ever-present risk for landlords, and its impact, both financial and legal, can be devastating. From criminals impersonating property owners to fake letting agents and tenants using forged identities, the threats are varied and are becoming increasingly sophisticated.

Created in collaboration with Suzanne Smith, this article breaks down the three most common types of fraud landlords face and the practical steps you can take to mitigate each risk.

How you can mitigate the risk



What landlords need to know about the Renters’ Rights Act

This article, created in collaboration with Suzanne Smith, provides a clear, practical overview of the key changes introduced by the Renters’ Rights Act and what landlords need to do to stay compliant.

From tenancy reforms and rent rules to new tenant rights and penalties, it’s designed to help landlords prepare for the upcoming changes with confidence.

What you need to know about the Renters' Rights Act



The business of being a landlord

It is becoming increasingly complex to be a landlord. Yet only a small proportion of landlords are “professional”: 83% of landlords in England own fewer than five rental properties, and 45% have just one. Yet this complexity affects everyone, from the “accidental landlord” with a single property to those with larger portfolios.

To thrive in this environment, landlords need to treat their rental properties as a business and take a professional approach.


8 practical tips for your landlord business




About Suzanne Smith

Suzanne Smith is the founder of The Independent Landlord and a leading voice in the private rented sector.

A former solicitor, she combines legal expertise with hands-on landlord experience to make complex issues clear and actionable.


Visit The Independent Landlord site