A Comprehensive Guide
Landlords in England must follow strict procedures when evicting tenants. The process varies depending on the type of tenancy agreement. Most private renters have an assured shorthold tenancy, which typically lasts for six or twelve months or continues on a rolling basis with no fixed end date.
Section 21 notice: This allows landlords to evict tenants without giving a reason, but they must provide at least two months' notice.
This allows landlords to evict tenants for specific reasons, such as rent arrears or damage to the property.
Once the notice period ends, landlords can begin court proceedings to evict the tenant. However, it's illegal for landlords to change the locks or use force to evict tenants.
Banning Section 21 evictions: This would eliminate "no-fault" evictions, providing greater security for tenants.
Landlords would need to have valid grounds for evicting tenants, such as rent arrears or anti-social behavior.
New tenants would have a 12-month period during which they cannot be evicted without a valid reason.
Landlords would need to provide four months' notice to end a tenancy after the protected period.
These changes aim to provide greater security and stability for tenants in England.
Rent increases: Landlords can only increase rent by a "fair and realistic" amount, in line with local averages. Under the new plans, rent increases would be limited to once a year.
Landlords can only request a maximum of five weeks' rent as a deposit, or six weeks if the annual rent exceeds £50,000. Deposits must be placed in a government-approved tenancy deposit scheme.
Landlords are responsible for ensuring the rental property meets certain standards of health and safety.
Landlords cannot refuse to rent to someone based on their protected characteristics, such as having children or claiming benefits.
The new law will give tenants the right to request permission to keep a pet. Landlords can only refuse on reasonable grounds.
Landlords must give tenants at least 24 hours' notice before entering the property, except in emergencies. Visits should be at a reasonable time of day and spaced at least three months apart, except for the initial inspection when the tenant moves in.
These are just some of the key rules and regulations governing renting and evictions in England. It's important for both landlords and tenants to understand their rights and responsibilities to ensure a smooth and positive rental experience.