CIH responds to latest developments on the Renters (Reform) Bill

The Renters (Reform) Bill has passed its third reading in the House of Commons, with concerns raised regarding its development.

Chartered Institute of Housing head of policy and external affairs, Rachael Williamson, said:

“Having made a commitment in its 2017 manifesto to end no fault evictions and ensure a fairer private rented sector, it’s disappointing to see that the government's Renters (Reform) Bill has completed its passage in the House of Commons with a diluted set of proposals. We hope that its scrutiny in the House of Lords will provide an opportunity for amendment, with a clear timetable as to when no fault evictions will end. We should, however, recognise the positive aspects that remain, including a new landlord portal and ombudsman. “

Background

The Renters (Reform) Bill was introduced to the House of Commons in May 2023 and has made slow progress through Parliament. When introduced it represented a significant step forward in updating the landlord-tenant relationship, through the following measures:

• The end of Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions and a move to a simpler tenancy structure where all assured tenancies are periodic
• Introduction of more comprehensive possession grounds so landlords can recover their property, should they wish to sell or move in
• Stronger protections against backdoor eviction by ensuring tenants can appeal against excessively above-market rents designed to force them out
• A new private-rented sector Ombudsman that private landlords must join
• A new privately rented property portal to help landlords understand their legal obligations and demonstrate compliance
• The right for tenants to request a pet in the property, which the landlord must consider and cannot unreasonably refuse
• Introduction of the decent homes standard to all privately rented dwellings, with new powers for councils to enforce it.

We’ll keep members up to date as the Bill progresses. For more information see our what you need to know guide (which will be updated as the bill develops).