The Renter’s Rights Bill is now an Act!

The Renter’s Right Bill has now been given Royal Assent, but don’t panic. Here at Emsleys we will continue to keep you up to date with all the information and how it affects you.

We know immediately that some new local authority enforcement powers will be available in two months’ time. We are waiting for further information as to the commencement date of the major changes and we will be giving more detailed information in due course.

As a reminder here are some of the main points of the bill:

• Section 21 notice have been abolished.   
• All assured shorthold tenancies will be abolished and replaced with assured tenancies.
• All tenancies will be periodic from the outset.
• No rent in advance unless volunteered by a tenant.
• New tenancies must run for 12 months.
• Tenants can give 2 months’ notice to vacate at any time.
• New notice periods under a Section 8 notice will apply if you want your property back.
• No rental bartering. The rent marketed is rent that you can charge.
• Annual rent reviews can be no greater than market level.
• Rent reviews must use a Section 13 notice and you must provide at least 2 months’ notice.
• No discrimination.
• No blanket bans for pets
• Awaabs Law is law for both the social and private sector.
• Decent Homes Standard is law.
• Landlords must sign up to the Landlords Property Database.
• Landlords must sign up to an Ombudsman scheme.

See our earlier blogs.

https://www.emsleysestateagents.co.uk/blog/

What you need to do.

• If you have a tenant in place, then just make sure you know the legislation and tune into our updates on our website.

• Be prepared to answer your tenants’ queries about the new Bill.

• If you are re-marketing, make sure you know the new rules, make sure you advertise at the right rental price and continue to choose your tenants wisely.

• Check your loss of rent and legal protection insurance and ensure it is adequate and in place.

Remember that we have been through many changes before, and the market has survived. Tenants will always need homes and if you keep up to date with the new legislation, it will all become second nature in time.

At Emsleys we have been closely following the Bill from its conception to Royal Assent and are well placed to help you navigate the changes whether your property is tenanted or vacant.