As the wind of change blows through the private rental sector in England, landlords may soon find their powers to evict tenants curtailed.

A new law, currently under parliamentary debate, aims to halt unjustified evictions and prevent bans on tenants who claim benefits.

The move would also give tenants the right to keep pets in their homes – a request that landlords couldn't unreasonably refuse – and render it unlawful for landlords to decline tenancies to families with children.

Renters aren't the only winners, though. The proposed legislation also promises to streamline the process for landlords who want to reclaim properties from troublesome tenants.

However, housing advocates urge caution, warning that the bill could inadvertently create eviction loopholes.

What's the background?

In its 2019 election manifesto, the Conservative Party pledged to deliver better conditions for renters, notably including a ban on no-cause evictions.

Currently, Section 21 of the Housing Act 1988 allows landlords to evict tenants without giving a reason. This impending reform aims to limit such evictions to certain circumstances, such as when landlords plan to sell the property or if they or a close family member want to move in.

This legislation aims to protect renters from rogue landlords and offer landlords a fair deal, with provisions to evict anti-social tenants or those who consistently fail to pay rent.

Despite the proposed changes raising some eyebrows among landlords, the government maintains that the bill is set to bring about a positive shift in the rental sector – a sentiment that will no doubt resonate with many.

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