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The King’s Speech – safeagent comments

Today’s King’s Speech confirmed that new protections for renters will be introduced, as well as the ending of no-fault evictions via the Renters’ Rights Bill. No timeframe has been mentioned yet but in its manifesto Labour had pledged to

“immediately abolish Section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions”.

Tenants will also be empowered to challenge rent increases and new laws will be introduced to end the practice of rental bidding wars by landlords and letting agents.

A Decent Homes Standard for the Private Rented Sector (PRS), applying Awaab’s Law, will ensure landlords make homes safe quickly, while it will be illegal for landlords to discriminate against tenants on benefits or with children.

Commenting on the King’s Speech, Isobel Thomson, chief executive of safeagent, says:

“Today in the King’s Speech the new Government has set out ambitious plans for reform in the Private Rented Sector and we fully support their aspirations to raise standards.

“While welcoming their commitment to strengthening local councils’ enforcement powers, we highlight the need to ensure enforcement activity is properly resourced if these measures are to achieve the desired outcome.

“We would urge Government while seeking to “level the playing field between landlords and tenants” not to alienate landlords and to recognise the vital role of landlords and agents in underpinning a safe and secure PRS for the majority of tenants.

“We look forward to more detail on the contents of the Bill and will be happy to work with Government.”