Reforming Private Renting

I have long supported calls for more rights and better protections for tenants, including a ban on section 21 evictions to prevent renters from being uprooted with little notice and minimal justification. I believe we need to fundamentally reform the sector to tilt the balance of power towards renters and make renting fairer, more secure and more affordable.

Although there are a number of welcome measures in the Renters’ Reform Bill, I share concerns that there are loopholes that could be used by ill-intentioned landlords to exploit tenants and evict them unfairly. The Government must take steps to address these and ensure renters finally get the long-term security they deserve.

I welcome the ban on landlords raising rents more than once a year. Nonetheless, I remain concerned the changes are not robust enough to prevent unaffordable rent increases from being used as default eviction notices for the purpose of retaliation against complaints. A one-year rent increase limit, the removal of rent review clauses, and vague assurances about giving tenants the confidence to challenge unjustified increases at tribunal are not enough.

I was also concerned to note the Government announcement that a ban on section 21 evictions will be delayed until court reforms have been implemented. I agreed with an amendment tabled by the Opposition at Committee Stage which would have seen the ban come in to force when the Bill becomes law. However, this was not accepted, and it remains unclear when the Government will enact these important measures.

In addition, the Opposition tabled an amendment that would have extended the minimum notice period for a number of ‘no fault’ grounds for possession to four months instead of two. Unfortunately this was also opposed by the Government and will not form part of the Bill as it progresses.

As the Bill continues, I assure you I will continue to support efforts to push for a range of improvements to ensure private renters finally get the protection, rights and conditions that they deserve. Renters cannot afford more delays – they need security now.