Ellie Ames 11 September 2024

No-fault evictions ban returns to Commons

No-fault evictions ban returns to Commons image
Image: Mistervlad / Shutterstock.com

A ban on landlords evicting tenants without a valid reason is among the ‘landmark’ renting reforms to be introduced to Parliament today.

The long-awaited ban on Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions, which would apply to both new and existing tenancies, is part of the new Renters' Rights Bill.

The previous government failed on its pledge to end the practice.

The Local Government Association (LGA) welcomed the news, and said Section 21 notices were the main cause of people asking councils for homelessness support.

Labour's new Bill also extends both ‘Awaab’s Law’, under which landlords must fix reported health and safety hazards within a strict timeframe, and the Decent Homes Standard to the private rented sector.

Under the Decent Homes Standard, councils will be able to fine landlords up to £7,000 if they fail to address serious hazards.

The Bill bans landlords from accepting bids above the asking rent; limits rent rises to once a year and prohibits blanket bans on tenants who have children or receive benefits.

It also introduces a Private Rented Sector Database with information on landlords to support councils' enforcement.

LGA housing spokesperson Adam Hug said the association would work with the Government so councils had ‘the right powers, skills, capacity and resources to undertake effective enforcement activity’.

Campaign group Renters’ Reform Coalition said the legislation was stronger than the previous government’s Renters (Reform) Bill, but warned that it must close all loopholes that landlords could use to evict tenants.

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Head of Democratic Services, Elections & Monitoring Officer

Harborough District Council
Grade 12 £67,236 – £71,223 plus £3000pa Statutory Officer Allowance
We are looking for an accomplished and proactive leader for our vacant post of Head of Democratic Services & Elections Market Harborough, Leicestershire
Recuriter: Harborough District Council

Social Worker - Family Support and Safeguarding - Bicester Banbury

Oxfordshire County Council
£37035 - £47754
You will manage a caseload tailored to your experience, ensuring that children’s and their families’ voices are heard, and their needs are met. You will work with families using the FSP Workbook modules, and a strengths-based approach, ensuring the As Bicester
Recuriter: Oxfordshire County Council

Executive Director of Resources & Governance (S151 Officer)

Basildon Borough Council
Up to £146,245
Together, we lead. Together, we deliver. Together, we transform. Basildon, Essex
Recuriter: Basildon Borough Council

Executive Director of Homes, Communities & Environment

Basildon Borough Council
Up to £146,245
Together, we lead. Together, we deliver. Together, we transform. Basildon, Essex
Recuriter: Basildon Borough Council

Executive Director of Strategy, People & Transformation

Basildon Borough Council
Up to £146,245
Together, we lead. Together, we deliver. Together, we transform. Basildon, Essex
Recuriter: Basildon Borough Council
Linkedin Banner