They intend to introduce a new, fairer deal for both landlords and tenants in the private rented sector. As part of this new deal, the Government is proposing to put an end to ‘no-fault’ evictions by potentially removing the section 21 of the Housing Act 1988 (notice). Under the new proposals, a tenant could not be evicted from their home without good reason, providing tenants with more stability, and enabling them to put down roots.

The Government intends to strengthen the section 8 possession process, so property owners can regain their home should they wish to sell it or move into it. These will be in addition to the existing grounds which allow landlords to evict tenants who dont pay the rent or commit anti-social behaviour. There are plans to also reform the court process for housing cases, so that landlords can swiftly and smoothly regain their property where they have a legitimate reason.

The Government will launch a consultation soon on section 21, which, when it is served, gives a tenant 2 months or 8 weeks notice to bring the tenancy to an end, providing the expiry is after the end of the tenancy fixed term. As with any legislation change, the process for any changes to come in to force is likely to take a lengthy time, as many pieces of housing regulation will require updating and changing before Government can proceed with this process. £0 £0Therefore, open ended tenancies to materialise as a result of abolishing this notice is not imminent. £0

If abolishing section 21 means strengthening the section 8 possession process, where additional grounds will allow landlords to evict tenants for property damage and anti-social behaviour, in reality not much should change.

On hearing this announcement, we reviewed the last 5 section 21 notices which we had served on behalf of our landlords – 4 were due to tenants being in breach of the tenancy (rent arrears or other reason) and 1 was because the landlord wanted to move in to the property. The perception of the Government is that landlords are evicting good o-fault tenants, which in reality and our experience is not the true picture and very rarely happens. £0

The Housing Secretary, James Brokenshire, said the Governments latest move to reform the PRS was the biggest change to the private rental sector in a generation and insisted they would ensure responsible landlords can get their property back where they have proper reason to do so.

Anyone wishing to discuss this further, please do not hesitate to contact us. £0