In May 2023, the government announced the Renters (Reform) Bill, aiming to significantly alter the landscape of residential tenancies by abolishing "no-fault" evictions through the removal of section 21 notices. Despite a pause in the bill's progression in October of the same year, Michael Gove confirmed in February 2024 the government's dedication to this cause, notably in response to criticisms that the bill was insufficient.
Partner, Mike Ellis has writte an article for 8.9ha on understanding the implications of the Renters (Reform) Bill.
This legislation is poised to offer assured shorthold tenants increased security by mandating that landlords rely on established statutory grounds for possession, alongside introducing other changes such as annual limits on rent reviews and prohibiting pet bans by landlords. The impact on the rural market, with its diverse tenancy types and occupational agreements, remains uncertain, though concerns have been raised about the potential for reduced flexibility for landlords who provide accommodation to workers.
The article suggests that while the abolition of section 21 might unsettle the market, estate and farming landlords may be less affected compared to their counterparts in the private rented sector, who are already considering exiting the market, consequently reducing available rental properties and driving rents up.
Mike writes: "Ultimately, landlords will likely want their rented properties to remain occupied...Adopting such an approach can only improve relations between landowners and tenants," highlighting the importance of providing secure and habitable accommodations to ensure mutual benefit and stability within the landlord-tenant relationship.
Read the full article here.
