Renter’s Rights Bill: Plan to ban Section 21 evictions to return to Commons
The government is set to introduce a significant piece of legislation in the House of Commons this week aimed at transforming the rental landscape in England. The forthcoming Renters’ Rights Bill, scheduled for its first reading, promises to bring about a range of changes designed to enhance tenant protections and address longstanding issues within the rental market.
At the heart of the bill is the long-awaited ban on Section 21 evictions. This provision, often criticised for allowing landlords to evict tenants without providing a reason and with only two months’ notice, will be abolished immediately upon the bill's enactment. This move marks a departure from the approach of the previous Conservative government, which had proposed a delay to assess the readiness of the court system to handle the influx of cases. The new legislation reflects a shift towards providing more stability for renters by preventing arbitrary evictions.
In addition to the Section 21 ban, the Renters’ Rights Bill will introduce new rights for tenants, including the ability to request permission to keep pets in their rented homes. This provision aims to address one of the common frustrations among renters, who often face difficulties in securing approval to have pets despite the growing recognition of the benefits of pet ownership.
The bill also seeks to tackle some of the less scrupulous practices in the rental market. It will give renters greater authority to challenge unjustified rent increases and put an end to the practice of rental bidding wars, which have been a source of frustration and financial strain for many tenants. These measures are intended to bring more transparency and fairness to the renting process.
Another key aspect of the bill is the expansion of Awaab’s Law to cover the private rental sector. Originally enacted in response to the tragic death of toddler Awaab Ishak, who died due to exposure to mould in his family's social rented home, this law requires landlords to address hazards within a specified timeframe. Extending this requirement to private rentals aims to ensure that all tenants, regardless of the type of rental property they occupy, benefit from prompt and effective maintenance and repair services.
Overall, the Renters’ Rights Bill represents a significant step towards improving the rental experience for millions of people across England. By enhancing tenant protections, addressing unfair practices, and ensuring safer living conditions, the bill is poised to make a substantial impact on the rental housing sector.
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