The Renters’ Rights Bill is currently at committee stage and edging closer to Royal Assent. Here are the key changes anticipated for the 11million tenants and 2.3million landlords the bill will affect...
No more no-fault evictions
Section 21 will cease. Section 8 will be the only way to evict, and landlords will need to cite the right mandatory/discretionary grounds or risk rejection. Grounds for possession will be made clearer, as well as expanded to protect both parties.
Periodic, period
All new tenancies will be periodic (aka ‘rolling’), and any fixed-term tenancies already in place will switch over to periodic. There’ll be no specified end date to a tenancy, until/unless either party serves notice.
Decent homes by default and punishments for non-compliance
The Decent Homes Standard aims to ensure safer, better-value homes. Awaab’s Law will extend to the private rented sector, requiring response and repair within a strict timeline.
Appeals against increases
Tenants will be able to appeal excessive rent demands. Landlords will need to justify any increases, ideally using an agent who can provide evidence that the rise remains in line with the market.
Ban on bidding wars
Not only will bidding wars be banned, accepting offers over asking won’t be allowed.
Don’t discriminate
It’ll be illegal for landlords and letting agents to discriminate against those on benefits or with children. Pets can be requested too, and landlords can’t unreasonably refuse.
Introducing an ombudsman
By setting up a landlord ombudsman, disputes can be resolved fairly, impartially, and with less demand on the courts, hopefully speeding up the process.
Digital database
A database of landlords will allow tenants visibility of any banning orders or non-compliance problems, so they can sift the good from the bad.
Questions about how these changes may affect you? We have the answers.
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