The Renters’ Rights Bill – Where are we now?

The Renters’ Rights Bill continues its progress through the House of Commons and is now at the Committee stage in the House of Lords before going back to the House of Commons (with suggested amendments) as it looks to significantly reform the private rental sector (PRS).

When this happens, any changes will be debated by the whole House and once agreed, although the House of Commons has control of this process.

What are the key points for Landlords?

The bill plans to abolish Assured Shorthold Tenancy agreements, end Section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions, improve the dispute process and bring a national database.

What does the House of Lords have to say

Fixed term agreements

The current status of the bill was commented on last week by the Housing Minister, Baroness Scott in relation to fixed-term agreements for private accommodation for students. She made the point that a fixed term for students and landlords would give a level of ‘certainty’ which would benefit both parties.

Section 21 notices

Lord Bird argues that Section 21 should be abolished immediately. He said that it ‘undermines tenants, regardless of whether the landlord has any intention of using them.’

Rent controls

These are controls that limit how much a landlord charge for rent. The idea is to make a property more affordable to rent for tenants. Baroness Taylor stated that the Government they ‘do not support rent controls’ She said that the effect could be to ‘reduce housing investment.’

Less incentive for landlords

A concern about whether landlords might exit the private rented sector (PRS) was voiced by Lord Jamieson. He predicted that the potential fallout from this bill could result in an increase in rent to students.

However, Baroness Taylor didn’t agree and doesn’t think the bill would have this effect on the amount of student accommodation available. Although, a survey by the UK Property Accountants this year predicted that approximately 21% of landlords plan to sell their properties because of the Renters’ Rights Bill.

Any amendments suggested by the Lords will be discussed at the Committee stage which has been announced for April 2025, and the reality of whether any will become law will become apparent adding additional clarity over the exact structure and wording of the Renters’ Rights Bill before it becomes law, which is predicted to be this summer.

Sources:

• UK Parliament, House of Lords Library
• UK Parliamentary Bills; Renters Rights Bill (bills.parliament.co.uk)
• The independent landlord
• Accommodation for students

Written by Julian Clay, Sales Consultant