The Renters’ (Reform) Bill was introduced to Parliament in May 2023. The full details of the bill can be viewed here – Renters (Reform) Bill. In summary, the Bill delivers the government’s 2019 manifesto commitment to abolish Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions.
The new Bill will empower Tenants to challenge poor landlords without fear of losing their homes. Tenants will also have the right to request a pet. Landlords will not be able to refuse. However, they can require tenants to take out pet insurance to cover any damage to the property.
The government has stated that it will bring forward legislation as part of the Bill to make it illegal for landlords and agents to have blanket bans on renting to tenants in receipt of benefits or with children. This is to ensure no family is unjustly discriminated against when looking for a place to live.
From the landlord’s perspective, the new Bill offers protection by making it easier for them to recover properties when they need to. For example, they can sell their property if they want to, move in with a close family member, or when tenants wilfully do not pay rent. Notice periods will also be reduced where tenants have been irresponsible, for example, breaching their tenancy agreement or causing damage to the property.
Tenants will be required to provide two months’ notice when leaving a tenancy, ensuring landlords recoup the costs of finding a tenant and avoid lengthy void periods.
A new reformed Court process is being developed to make sure that the new tenancy systems work for landlords and tenants. For the minority of evictions that do end up in the courts, more of the process will be digitised – reducing delays.
A new Ombudsman will provide quicker and cheaper resolutions to disputes, while a new digital Property Portal will enable landlords to understand their obligations and help tenants make better decisions when signing a new tenancy agreement. This will give confidence to good landlords while driving the criminal minority out of business.
We have a lot of experience working with landlords and property developers. If you would like any advice on managing your property portfolio and exploring ways to reduce your tax liabilities, please contact us by calling 01623 490 120 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Haidee is our Personal Tax Director and is a fully qualified tax adviser, having achieved the ATT qualification in 2006. Tax efficiency being her main concern. Specialising in taxation, Haidee provides clients with advice on personal tax, PAYE services, VAT and social security. She also provides guidance to new start-up businesses.
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When you first start a business, your focus is usually on attracting customers, generating sales and building a successful company. Few business owners spend much time thinking about how or when they will eventually leave the business.
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