Landlords could gain new powers to evict domestic abuse perpetrators from social housing under changes proposed in the Social Housing Bill, the Government has confirmed.

The Bill, which will receive its second reading in Parliament today, aims to ensure victims no longer have to leave their homes before landlords can evict the perpetrator.

Existing regulations can leave victims in joint tenancies with no option but to end the tenancy altogether, increasing their risk of homelessness.

According to the announcement today from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, the Bill would prevent social housing joint tenancies from being ended by a Notice to Quit served by a perpetrator while court proceedings are underway.

The proposed new laws will also allow for tenancies to be transferred into the victim’s sole name, while landlords would be required to deliver suitable alternative accommodation if staying is not appropriate.

The Government’s announcement confirms that roughly 15,000 households across the country had no choice but to find a new social home last year due to domestic abuse. It highlights that the changes aim to support victims in remaining part of their communities and networks by allowing them to stay safely in their homes.

Housing Secretary Steve Reed said: ‘Victims of domestic abuse have faced an impossible choice – stay in danger or make themselves homeless.

‘This is a moral failure this Government is determined to end and these changes are deeds not words that put victims first, give landlords the powers they need, and make sure perpetrators can no longer use housing as a weapon of control.’

Head of Domestic Abuse Housing Alliance, Nicki Clarke added: ‘Domestic abuse typically takes place in the home and it is where most women are killed. By enabling landlords to safeguard victims and hold the perpetrators of abuse to account, these reforms will enable domestic abuse victims, including children, to achieve safety, stability and long-term housing security.

‘This is essential for all individuals impacted by domestic abuse to rebuild their independence and move forward with lives free from harm.’