Approximate read time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Measures that the Renters’ Rights Bill would introduce include the following:
- Abolish section 21, so-called ‘no-fault’ evictions, and move all new and existing assured tenancies to periodic rather than fixed term agreements with no end date.
- Reform possession grounds to allow landlords to regain possession of their properties in various circumstances whilst ensuring tenants’ rights.
- Allow for appeals against excessive above-market rents and end rental bidding by prohibiting landlords from asking for offers above the advertised rent.
- Introduce a new private rented sector landlord ombudsman.
- Create a private rented sector database to help landlords demonstrate compliance, inform tenants, and support local authority enforcement.
- Apply the decent homes standard to the PRS and ‘Awaab’s Law’ setting requirements over how landlords must tackle hazards in their properties.
- Outlaw discrimination against prospective tenants in receipt of benefits or with children, and strengthen tenants’ rights to have a pet.
- Strengthen local authority enforcement by expanding civil penalties and introducing a package of investigatory powers.
- Strengthen rent repayment orders.
Despite its similarities with the earlier bill, the Conservative Party have refused to support the legislation, tabling a reasoned amendment to decline to give it a second reading in the House of Commons, and voting against it at third reading. They contend it risks distorting the PRS and leaving landlords and tenants worse off. Other opposition parties have largely supported the bill, though have sought to reform various aspects such as rent controls.
