As the Renters Reform Bill progresses through Parliament, anticipation mounts for its next stage, a Third Reading in the Commons. Though a specific date remains unconfirmed, recent communication from Housing Minister Jacob Young hints at imminent progress, sparking both interest and concern.
Renters Reform Bill Advances Amid Controversy
In a letter addressed to Conservative MPs just before Easter, Young outlined proposed amendments to the Bill in an effort to broker a compromise. However, these amendments have stirred strong reactions from activist groups such as Generation Rent and the Renters Reform Coalition.
Key amendments include:
- Implementation of a 'moratorium' on tenants serving their two months’ notice within the first four months of a tenancy, with certain exceptions such as significant hazards in the property, domestic abuse, and tenant death. This effectively extends the initial commitment period to six months for both parties.
- Assessment of court processes and barriers to possession before the abolition of Section 21 for existing tenancies.
- Review of local licensing schemes to alleviate burdens on landlords, particularly in light of the introduction of the property portal. This encompasses both selective and HMO licensing.
- Expansion of the new mandatory possession ground for student lets to apply to any property leased to students, provided the landlord includes this intention in the tenancy agreement.
- Prohibition of short-term lets following the invocation of move-in or selling grounds for a three-month period during which properties cannot be marketed or relet for long-term rentals.
- Amendment of local authorities’ homelessness prevention duty to apply in cases where a tenant has been served a valid Section 8 notice.
For those seeking guidance on navigating these developments, our team is readily available to offer assistance. Feel free to reach out for support.
