Renters Reform Bill on hold
7 June 2024
The Conservative Government first introduced the idea of banning no-fault evictions back in 2019. The emphasis behind scrapping these types of evictions was to give more security to tenants and to help battle homelessness.
The Renters Reform Bill (the “Bill”) was introduced to Parliament in May 2023. The Bill proposed new rules such as moving to rolling tenancies instead of fixed terms, landlords to allow tenants to have pets, and having an ombudsman for landlords. The Bill was broadly supported by both the Conservatives and Labour parties; however, it contrary to initial indications the Government decided that the Bill would not become law until the courts were deemed fit to deal with the Bill. Given that the courts are already dealing with huge delays, it raises the question as to whether they will ever be ready to deal with these intended changes to the private rented sector?
Despite Michael Gove’s widely reported claim that the Bill would become an Act of Parliament before the next general election, the Bill was not in fact passed before parliament dissolved and therefore will not become law before the summer general election on 4 July 2024.
This comes as extremely disappointing news to many in the private rented sector, particularly as the Government time and time again has promised to enact the legislation. The current legislation as it stands is widely regarded as unfit for purpose and in urgent need for reform. It will most certainly be interesting to see what the future holds for the sector. We will be keeping a close eye on this and will be providing updates as the future of the Bill unfolds.
Although the Bill was not passed, some landlord and tenant reform was hurriedly enacted in the Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024, which was passed on 24 May 2024. This Act deals with issues relevant to long leasehold property. The reforms will not come into effect until the Act is implemented and we will publish an article to update on the changes that will come into effect in due course.
The content of this article is for general information only. It is not, and should not be taken as, legal advice. If you require any further information in relation to this article please contact the author in the first instance. Law covered as at June 2024.