Many tenants live with the worry of being evicted at short notice or endure poor accommodation for fear they will be asked to leave if they complain about problems with their home. This is a problem that must be tackled.
Importantly, I have been assured that the Government is standing by its manifesto commitment to abolish 'no fault' Section 21 evictions - one of the largest causes of family homelessness. I believe that reforming the current tenancy system will provide more security to private renters and give them the confidence to properly settle down in their homes.
Under proposals set out in the 'A Fairer Private Rented Sector' White Paper, all tenants would be moved onto a single system of periodic tenancies. This would offer greater security while retaining the flexibility that attracts many tenants to the private rented sector. A tenancy will only come to an end if the tenant chooses to leave or if the landlord has a valid ground for possession. Tenants would then need to give two months’ notice when leaving a tenancy which would ensure that landlords can avoid lengthy void periods.
It is important that providing tenants with this greater security is balanced with an assurance that landlords are able to recover their properties where they have valid reason to do so. This is vital to ensuring the future supply of good-quality housing in the private rented sector. The Government has said it will reform grounds of possession so that the system is comprehensive, fair and effective. In addition, improvements will be made to court processes to ensure that disputes are resolved quickly and smoothly.
Regarding the timing of any potential legislation, I understand that the Government will set out its next steps following on from the White Paper in due course. To be clear, I appreciate the strength of feeling on this matter, therefore, and I am assured that there is a strong commitment across government to reform the private rented sector for landlords and tenants alike.