The Renters Reform Bill is a proposed piece of legislation in the UK that aims to improve the rights of tenants in the private rented sector. The bill has been introduced by the government in response to concerns about the lack of security of tenure for tenants, the high cost of rent, and the poor quality of housing in the private rented sector.
The bill includes a number of changes that will affect both tenants and landlords. Here is a breakdown of the key changes:
- Abolition of section 21 evictions: Section 21 evictions are currently allowed under the law, and allow landlords to evict tenants without giving a reason. This has led to a number of cases where tenants have been evicted unfairly, such as being evicted to make way for a new tenant who is willing to pay more rent. The Renters Reform Bill will abolish section 21 evictions, meaning that landlords will only be able to evict tenants for one of the reasons set out in the bill.
- Introduction of more comprehensive possession grounds for landlords: Under the current law, landlords can evict tenants for a wide range of reasons, including rent arrears, anti-social behavior, and if they need the property for themselves or a close family member. The Renters Reform Bill will narrow the range of reasons for which a landlord can evict a tenant, and will also make it more difficult for landlords to evict tenants who are in rent arrears.
- Creation of a new type of tenancy called the ‘periodic tenancy’: Periodic tenancies will not have an end date, and tenants will only be able to be evicted for one of the reasons set out in the bill. This will give tenants greater security of tenure.
- Introduction of a new system for setting rent increases: The Renters Reform Bill will introduce a new system for setting rent increases, which will be based on the Consumer Price Index. Tenants will be able to challenge rent increases that they believe are unfair.
- Creation of a new ombudsman for the private rented sector: The Renters Reform Bill will create a new ombudsman for the private rented sector, who will be able to investigate complaints from tenants and landlords.
The Renters Reform Bill is still in the early stages of its passage through Parliament, but it is expected to become law in 2024. If it does, it will represent a significant improvement in the rights of tenants in England.
Here are some of the potential impacts of the Renters Reform Bill:
- Tenants will have greater security of tenure: This means that tenants will be less likely to be evicted unfairly.
- Tenants will have more control over their rent increases: This means that tenants will be able to challenge rent increases that they believe are unfair.
- Tenants will have more recourse if their landlords break the law: This means that tenants will be able to take legal action against their landlords if they are evicted unfairly or if their landlords fail to provide a safe and habitable property.
The Renters Reform Bill is a significant piece of legislation that will have a major impact on the private rented sector in England. It is important for both tenants and landlords to be aware of the changes that the bill will bring about.
The Gallery Properties
The Gallery Properties is a property management company that can help landlords navigate through the changes that will be brought about by the Renters Reform Bill. We can provide landlords with advice on the new rules and regulations, and we can help them to comply with the law. We can also help landlords to find new tenants, and we can manage their properties on their behalf.
If you are a landlord who is concerned about the Renters Reform Bill, or if you would like to learn more about how The Gallery Properties can help you, please contact us today. We would be happy to discuss your specific needs and to provide you with the information and support that you need.
How we can help you:
At The Gallery Properties, we understand that the Renters Reform Bill can be a daunting prospect for new landlords. That’s why we offer a comprehensive range of services to help you comply with the law and manage your properties effectively.
Our team of experienced property managers can provide you with advice on the new rules and regulations, and can help you to find new tenants and manage your properties on your behalf. We also offer a range of other services, such as rent collection, repairs, and maintenance.
If you’re a new landlord, we encourage you to contact us today to learn more about how we can help you.
