England’s private rental sector is set to undergo significant changes, with the government confirming that no-fault evictions will be outlawed from May. This move forms a central part of broader reforms aimed at creating a fairer and more secure housing market for tenants across the country.
The upcoming ban on Section 21 evictions, often referred to as no-fault evictions, will prevent landlords from removing tenants without providing a legitimate reason. This legislative shift, long advocated by housing charities, is intended to provide greater stability and peace of mind for renters who have previously faced eviction with as little as two months’ notice, often without any breach of their tenancy agreement.
Alongside the abolition of no-fault evictions, the government’s reform package also addresses the practice of ‘bidding wars’ in the rental market. Measures are being introduced to curb situations where prospective tenants are pressured to offer increasingly higher rents above the advertised price to secure a property. This aims to foster more transparent and equitable rental practices, ensuring that tenants are not exploited during periods of high demand.
These substantial changes are encapsulated within the Renters (Reform) Bill, which seeks to overhaul the private rental sector. The legislation is designed to empower tenants, enhance their security, and professionalise the industry, ultimately striving for a more balanced relationship between landlords and renters. The confirmed May timeline signals a definitive step towards implementing these long-awaited reforms.
