The renters reform bill has passed through the House of Commons but with no specific timeline on the abolition of no-fault evictions.
Speaking at the bill’s third reading yesterday (April 24), Levelling Up minister and MP for Redcar, Jacob Young, argued it will create a fairer private rented sector for both landlords and tenants, delivering on the government’s 2019 manifesto commitment.
He added the bill also aims to strengthen and expand landlord possession grounds, including stronger protections against antisocial behaviour.
Also included in the bill is the abolition of section 21 of the Housing Act 1988 and the introduction of new decency standards, thereby banning no-fault evictions.
However, Young specified this abolition is not set to take place until the government is “confident” that the country’s court system is ready.
While Young added the government has invested £1.2mn in the court system, he was unable to provide a specific date for section 21’s abolition.
This delay was criticised by Labour MP for Enfield North, Feryal Clark, who pointed out since the government’s initial promise to outlaw no-fault evictions in 2019, more than 2,000 people in her area of Enfield had been subject to a no-fault eviction notice.
“The minister talks about fairness to landlords, but does he recognise the cost to renters, and indeed to local authorities through temporary accommodation?” she asked.
This was acknowledged by Young who said: “I absolutely accept that there is a cost but what I would say is that a system that does not work for landlords will not benefit tenants and vice versa."
Young also spoke about the benefits of the bill, arguing it is an opportunity for the government to improve the life chances of millions of private renters across the country.
“I hope that we have also given reassurance to the millions of good landlords who endeavour to provide homes for those who rely on the private rented sector,” he stated.
“This bill marks the biggest change to the sector in more than 30 years.”
Young also acknowledged that other members have “pressed the government” to ensure a balance is struck so that the sector is improved for all while no party is “unduly burdened”.
“I believe that the bill now strikes that balance, and I am proud to have taken it through the house as my first bill as a minister,” he added.
The bill will now move to the House of Lords.
tom.dunstan@ft.com
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