October 22, 2023
The UK government has announced a concession on Section 21 of the Housing Act 1988, which allows landlords to evict tenants without giving a reason. Under the new proposals, Section 21 evictions will not be abolished, but they will be made more difficult.
Specifically, the government has pledged to:
- Reform the courts system to speed up possession cases where landlords have good cause, such as tenant rent arrears or anti-social behavior.
- Introduce a new ground for possession that will facilitate the yearly cycle of short-term student tenancies.
- Strengthen the existing grounds for possession, such as by making it easier for landlords to repossess properties that are being used for illegal purposes.
The government has also said that it will work with landlords and tenants to develop a new model for the private rental sector. This model will be based on the principles of fairness, security, and choice for tenants.
The Renters Reform Bill is currently making its way through Parliament. It is expected to become law in 2024.
The government’s concession on Section 21 has been welcomed by tenant groups, but some landlords have expressed concerns that it will make it more difficult for them to evict tenants who are not paying rent or behaving badly.
However, the government has said that it is committed to protecting the rights of both tenants and landlords. The new reforms are designed to create a more balanced and fair private rental sector.