What is the ‘Renters Reform Bill’
The Renters Reform Bill is a proposed legislation in the United Kingdom that aims to make changes to the rental market, particularly for tenants. The bill proposes to abolish Section 21 “no-fault” evictions, which currently allow landlords to evict tenants without providing a reason after the end of their fixed-term contract. It also proposes to create open-ended tenancies, which would give tenants more security and stability in their tenancy. Additionally, the bill proposes to improve the standards of rental properties and ensure that they are safe and habitable. The Renters Reform Bill has not yet been passed into law, but it is expected to be introduced to Parliament in the near future.
Getting rid of Section 21 evictions will help tenants exercise their renting rights without living in constant fear of eviction. Currently, renters are forced to endure anything from negligence to hazardous living conditions, as they are afraid to complain to their landlord for fear of being kicked out.
When is the ‘Renters Reform Bill’ due?
For a while now, we have been eagerly awaiting an update on the Renters Reform Bill. Although we know that it will be implemented, there has been little information beyond the headlines presented in the white paper, such as details on how the proposed reforms will be put into practice and the expected timeframes.
During an interview with the BBC, Michael Gove suggested that progress will be made on the Renters Reform Bill in the coming months. He also mentioned that the plans do not include “Rent Freezes” or “Rent Caps,” which will likely be welcomed by landlords concerned about not only being unable to evict tenants but also being unable to charge market-level or inflation-adjusted rents.
An official statement released by Rishi Sunak’s Office, entitled ‘Action plan to crack down on anti-social behaviour and restore pride in communities’, outlined measures to tackle anti-social behaviour. This included giving more powers to landlords and housing associations to evict tenants who persistently cause disturbances, such as through loud noise or disorderly behaviour, affecting their neighbours’ quality of life.
There has been much discussion around the impact of abolishing section 21 notices, which allow landlords to seek possession of a property without reason. However, it appears that landlords will still have increased powers to seek possession for tenant breaches of tenancy, with antisocial behaviour being a prominent example. While more detail on this is expected, it is clear that the legislation is progressing. However, the specifics of how this will work in practice are still outstanding and will be of great interest to landlords and property managers.
Although antisocial behaviour grounds for possession already exist, it remains to be seen what makes these plans different and whether they will be effective. Given the way this information is being released, we may not have to wait long to find out the government’s plans.
Renters Reform – Research Notes
Abolition of Section 21 – Eviction Notices
Disclaimer:
The information in this blog is for general information purposes only and does not purport to be comprehensive or to provide legal advice. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information and law is current as of the date of publication it should be stressed that, due to the passage of time, this does not necessarily reflect the present legal position. Connaught Law and authors accept no responsibility for loss that may arise from accessing or reliance on information contained in this blog. For formal advice on the current law please don’t hesitate to contact Connaught Law. Legal advice is only provided pursuant to a written agreement, identified as such, and signed by the client and by or on behalf of Connaught Law.
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