Howsy Fully managed
Howsy Protect
HMOs
Announced in June 2022, the Renter’s Reform Bill outlines the Government’s plans to build a fairer private rental sector in the UK. Over the past year, landlords have been following updates relating to this bill, preparing for its live date. Since we are now getting close to the bill due-date (May 2023), this article will summarise everything you need to know should the bill go ahead.
The end of Section 21 notices
The most significant and talked about change caused by the bill is the end of Section 21 notices.
Currently, Section 21 notices allow landlords to evict tenants without providing a reason. Under the proposed new rules, landlords will need to provide a valid reason for evicting tenants, such as rent arrears or anti-social behavior. The changes are designed to provide tenants with greater protection and reduce the number of unjust evictions.
Changes to Section 8 notices
Landlords will still be able to use Section 8 notices to evict tenants for specific reasons. However, the grounds for eviction may be limited, and the process time-consuming. For example, landlords will need to give tenants six months’ notice before they can issue a Section 8 notice for rent arrears.
Eviction reasons for a Section 8 notice must be one of the following:
- If a tenant has rent arrears
- If the tenant damages the property
- If the tenant is causing a nuisance to the neighbours
Security of tenure
The renter’s reform bill will provide tenants with greater security of tenure. As per the plans outlined in the bill, the minimum notice period for tenants to leave a property will be increased from two months to six months, giving tenants more time to find alternative accommodation.
Additionally, landlords will need to provide tenants with a minimum of three years’ security of tenure before they can end a tenancy.
Preparing for the changes in May
To prepare for the upcoming changes, landlords would need to review their policies and procedures to ensure they comply with the new rules. This includes ensuring that all tenancy agreements are up to date and providing tenants with the correct documentation.
Working with a letting agent can help landlords to navigate the new rules with ease and ensure that they are properly prepared for all of the new policies which will be coming out of the bill once it is live in May 2023.