Renters’ Rights Bill
Reforms to overhaul private renting in England, are a long-held manifesto commitment from Labour and the Renters’ Rights Bill was introduced on 11 September 2024 proposing a ban on Section 21 evictions, introducing a new tenancy regime and adding new requirements for property standards and rent increases.
The biggest overhaul of private renting in England
While we accept the need for reform, we share Landlords grave concerns with specific areas of the proposed legislation, and the impact this will have across the sector with the current lack of enforcement by local authorities.
We believe there needs to be a balanced approach between the rights of landlords and tenants.
Question: Without Section 21, can I get my property back to sell or move into the property.
Answer: Yes, you can. Proposed Section 8 grounds for possession would mean you can gain possession to either move in or sell your property in four months.
Question: Won’t the private Rented Sector Database just make it easier to target landlords?
Answer: No, You’ll be able to access to guidance and support so that you understand and be empowered to know what to expect from your letting agent.
What’s included in the Renters’ Rights Bill?
- Abolishing Section 21 ‘no fault evictions’ with new and expanded possession grounds.
- Introduce new measures to end rental bidding wars by landlords and letting agents.
- Tenants will have the right to request a pet and landlords will be allowed to request insurance to cover potential damage from pets if needed.
- Applying a Decent Homes Standard and ‘Awaab’s Law’ to the private rented sector.
- Creating a digital private rented sector database with key information for landlords, tenants, and councils.
- A new ombudsman service for private rented sector landlords.
- Making it illegal for landlords to discriminate against tenants in receipt of benefits or with children when choosing to let their property.
- Strengthening local councils’ enforcement powers through expanded Rent Repayment Orders and increases to fines.
Question: Can I evict my tenant if they fail to look after my property?
Answer: Using a qualified reputable letting agent will help you find suitable tenants. However, if a tenant breaks the terms of their tenancy, they can be evicted.