The long-awaited Renters’ (Reform) Bill – published after a three-and-a-half-year wait – reveals the Government’s intention to abolish “no-fault” evictions in England.
The plans mark a significant overhaul of the private rental sector. Currently known as Section 21 evictions, these allow landlords to regain possession of their properties without providing a specific reason.
Housing Secretary Michael Gove has previously argued that this practice enables unscrupulous landlords to intimidate tenants into silence regarding disrepair issues.
In addition to the abolition of no-fault evictions, the Bill aims to establish a legal right for tenants to request permission to have pets in their homes. Landlords will be obligated to consider these requests reasonably and refrain from unreasonably denying them.
The proposed measures will affect approximately 11 million tenants and two million landlords in England, according to the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC).
Key measures introduced by the Bill include:
These upcoming changes, once enshrined in law, are likely to have a substantial impact on landlords and investors.
If you require further information on any matter relating to residential lettings or tenancy agreements, please speak to us.
