Eviction Rules for Renters & Landlords Changing
From June 1st, the ban on evictions for tenants comes to an end. During the pandemic and the various lockdowns throughout the UK in 2020 and 2021, the government announced a complete ban on evictions so that those struggling to meet their rental payments would not be forced from their homes. In addition, the minimum notice period was increased to six months in the UK.
Previously, in order for a landlord to evict a tenant there were several steps that they must undertake;
- Issue a Section 21 (Notice of Possession) or Section 8 (Notice to Quit) notice which must include the date that they wish the tenant to leave
- If the tenant stays beyond that date, the landlord must then get a possession order from the Court
- If the tenant doesn’t leave on time, they must then ask the court for a Warrant of Possession – the court then sends an eviction notice to the tenants.
What has changed from the 1st June 2021?
Before the 1st June, landlords could give 6 months notice if they wanted their tenants to move out. This will be reduced to 4 months and will reduce further to two months from the 1st October. These minimum notices are for those circumstances where the tenants have violated their tenancy agreement. Should it go that far in proceedings, Bailiffs will be able to enforce an eviction notice with just two weeks’ notice.
If you, or anyone you live with has symptoms of Coronavirus, has tested positive for Covid or has been told to self-isolate by the NHS then they are unable to evict you.
Do Renters have any protection?
Landlords are unable to deny the tenants access to their house by locking them out of the property, nor are they allowed to harass a tenant to leave – the only one that can do that is the Bailiffs. One suggestion for those whose income has been affected by the pandemic is to begin a conversation with the landlord about what steps can be taken – landlords would have also experienced financial hardship during these testing times and government figures state that 45% of landlords are vulnerable to arrears themselves.
I need advice and assistance, what should I do?
If you require legal advice on your specific case, then our dispute resolution team may be able to help you. Reach out by calling 01903 229999 or by emailing us at info@bennett-griffin.co.uk.