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In June 2022 the Government published The Renters’ (Reform) Bill which contains new measures introduced to the private rental sector which includes abolishing "no-fault" evictions in England, allowing landlords to take back possession from tenants without giving a reason. The Bill was introduced to Parliament recently.
The measures being introduced include:
- A ban on no-fault evictions with a view to move to an uncomplicated tenancy structure, where all assured tenancies are periodic.
- Making it easier to evict tenants for anti-social behaviour and repeatedly missing rent payments. This includes shortening notice periods for tenants that breach their agreements. New repossession rights are also to be introduced for landlords planning to sell their property or to occupy it with their family members.
- Restrictions in relation to rent increases.
- Protection against back door evictions – tenants will be able to appeal against disproportionately above-market rents designed to force them out. The Tribunal will continue to be able to determine the actual market rent of a property.
- Giving tenants the right to request permission to keep pets in the rented property. Landlords must fairly consider all requests and cannot unreasonably refuse them. If the request is unreasonably refused, there may be an option for the tenant to challenge this.
- Introducing a new ombudsman covering many private landlord and tenant issues, with the power to enforce varying remedies.
- An online property portal, where landlords must demonstrate compliance with legal requirements. Participation in the ombudsman scheme will be mandatory for all landlords.
The Government has also stated that it will bring forward legislation at the earliest opportunity to:
- Apply the Decent Homes Standard to the private sector. This requires accommodation to be free from health and safety hazards and be well-maintained.
- Make it illegal for landlords and agents to impose blanket bans on benefit claimants or people with children.
- Strengthen the power of local authorities, such as councils, to address non-compliant landlords and make it a requirement to report on enforcement activity.
If you have any questions in relation to landlord or tenant issues or if you have any questions on the reforms, we can help. To get in touch with a member of our team, please call 01689 887887 or email jill.lawton@cwj.co.uk
Published 23 May 2023