A campaign group, the London Renters Union, is advocating for a robust approach to rental reform from any potential Labour government, irrespective of the fate of the Renters Reform Bill under the current Conservative administration. They argue that Labour should prioritize the implementation of a Section 21 eviction ban without delay, rather than waiting for proposed court system reforms.
The group believes that immediate action on the Section 21 eviction ban is essential to provide greater stability and security for renters. By introducing this measure promptly, Labour can demonstrate its commitment to addressing the concerns and challenges faced by tenants across the country.
The London Renters Union recommends a comprehensive approach to rental reform, proposing measures beyond those outlined in the Renters Reform Bill. They argue for the immediate introduction of a Section 21 eviction ban, emphasizing the urgency of protecting tenants’ rights without waiting for court reforms. Additionally, they advocate for the implementation of in-tenancy rent caps to shield renters from eviction resulting from unaffordable rent increases. This proposal aims to provide greater stability and security for tenants, ensuring that they are not unfairly displaced due to unsustainable rental costs.
Moreover, the LRU suggests extending the exemption period from eviction under specific circumstances, such as a landlord’s decision to move in or sell the property, from the current six months to a more robust two-year timeframe. By extending this period, tenants would have greater assurance of housing stability, allowing them sufficient time to find alternative accommodation if necessary. Additionally, the group calls for the implementation of deterrents and enforcement mechanisms to prevent the abuse of eviction rules by unscrupulous landlords. While specific details regarding these measures are not provided, the overarching aim is to safeguard tenants’ rights and prevent unjust evictions.
Furthermore, the LRU advocates for the establishment of longer notice periods, although they do not specify the exact duration. This proposal seeks to afford tenants adequate time to prepare for potential changes in their housing situation, enhancing their ability to plan and mitigate any adverse impacts of eviction. Overall, the group’s recommendations aim to address key issues faced by renters and to ensure that rental policies prioritize the interests and well-being of tenants across the housing market.
The National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA) has examined Labour’s proposed changes to the Renters Reform Bill to anticipate potential actions by a future Labour government.
According to the NRLA, Labour’s proposed amendment prioritizes the removal of Section 21 notices from the existing Bill, with court reform considered at a later stage.
Labour has expressed reservations about certain provisions in the current Bill, particularly concerning the grounds for a strengthened Section 8. Proposed amendments include restrictions on landlords’ ability to use grounds related to property sale or family occupancy within the first two years of a tenancy, as well as an extension of the notice period from two to four months.
Labour’s proposed amendments to the Renters (Reform) Bill include measures aimed at strengthening tenant protections and regulating landlord behavior.
These amendments include requiring landlords to offer the property for sale to tenants before using the sale ground for possession, and introducing a ‘hardship test’ to certain mandatory grounds, giving courts the discretion to deny possession orders if they determine that the tenant would suffer greater hardship than the landlord.
Labour also seeks to bolster financial penalties for landlords who fail to register with the proposed Property Portal, and mandates that landlords notify the Portal when serving a possession notice.
Furthermore, the Renters (Reform) Bill already restricts landlords regarding rent increases by prohibiting the use of rent review clauses. Instead, landlords must issue a Section 13 notice with a minimum of two months’ notice for any proposed rent hikes. Under Labour’s proposed amendments, if a tenant challenges the proposed increase, a Tribunal could only set the rent at the amount proposed by the landlord or lower. Additionally, rent increases would only come into effect two months after the tribunal’s decision.
Download NOW
4 Simple Steps To Becoming Wealthy Through Property