Renters Reform
April 2022
I recognise frustration that the publication of the White Paper has been delayed; a decision which I understand was taken in order to allow for further consultation with the sector. It is also the case that more time is required so that the findings of the National Audit Office’s review of regulation of the private rented sector can be taken into account. This will be crucial in ensuring that the White Paper delivers the balanced package of reforms that renters want to see.
The Government is dedicated to reforming the rental sector for tenants and landlords alike. A Renters Reform Bill will be brought forward to deliver a better deal for renters. I fully support ministers in this endeavour, and I look forward to reading further details about the reform package in an upcoming White Paper.
Central to these reforms will be the abolition of Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions, which the Government consulted upon in 2019. This will improve security for tenants and protect them from having to move at short notice, as well as strengthening repossession ground for landlords when they have valid cause. Proposals will also be set out for a new ‘lifetime’ tenancy deposit model that eases the burden on tenants when moving from one tenancy to the next, helping to improve the experience of those living in the private rental sector.
Standards in rented accommodation will be driven up, including by ensuring all tenants have a right to redress and warranting well-targeted, effective enforcement that drives out criminal landlords. As part of this, the White Paper will consult on introducing a legally binding Decent Homes Standard in the private rented sector for the first time.
The Government will explore the merits of a national landlord register. Improvements and possible efficiencies to the possession process in the courts will also be considered to make it quicker and easier for landlords and tenants to use.
A new property portal will be established which will help landlords understand their obligations, support local authorities to crack down on poor practice and give tenants performance information to hold their landlord to account.
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