During November 2023, Ashtons released a news article on the expected Bill under a Conservative Government that would change the residential lettings market, with reforms to renters’ rights and the abolition of the no-fault eviction, Section 21 notice, for regaining possession for landlords.
Almost a year on, under a new Labour Government, we now have a Renters’ Rights Bill, which is not dissimilar to the reforms set out by the previous Conservative bill. This is currently being debated in the House of Commons, with the second reading for the Committee Stage on 22nd October 2024.
The Bill will replace Section 21 notices with a modern tenancy system and crack down on the minority of unscrupulous landlords who exploit, mistreat, or discriminate against tenants. Whilst landlords may be anxious about these changes, we welcome the reform as it will bring about positive changes and drive significant improvements in the private rented sector, including applying a Decent Homes Standard and extending Awaab’s Law to it.
Some of the key changes in the Renters’ Rights Bill are as follows:
Creating a digital private rented sector database.
Strengthening tenants’ rights to challenge rent increases designed to force them out.
Establishing a new resolution service with a new Ombudsman service.
Giving tenants the right to request a pet, which landlords must consider.
Applying a Decent Homes Standard to the private rented sector.
Extending Awaab’s Law and setting clear legal expectations to make homes safe.
Abolishing Section 21 “no-fault evictions”.
Reforming possession grounds through Section 8 grounds.
Making it illegal to discriminate against tenants in receipt of benefits or with children.
Strengthening local councils’ enforcement powers against bad landlords.
The remaining 10 steps through the Commons, Lords, and towards achieving Royal Assent are likely to take until late Spring or Summer 2025. Ashtons are following each step with interest as we prepare to support our landlords and tenants through the biggest reform of private rental legislation in over 30 years.
Ashtons take great care and have a team of dedicated Asset Managers to ensure that landlords meet all legal requirements and navigate the property safety and repairs minefield, providing landlords with reassurance that they are ready for any legislative changes. The new Bill is another example of change for landlords, but it’s a small effort needed for those already under our Premier managed services.
Contact your local team to discuss upgrading to Premier Management and get ahead of the rush with an Ashtons expert on your side. With our guidance and unwavering commitment, we’re confident that together, we can successfully navigate any changes that lie ahead. Get in touch.