Labour’s Renter Rights Bill

by Ella Chisholm

You may have heard of the Renters Rights Bill, but do you know what’s in it? Keep reading to find out everything you need to know and how it may affect you.

What is it? (In a nutshell)

The Renter Rights bill was announced under the new Labour government, with plans to be introduced in the Autumn of this year, affecting private renters in England and partially extending to Wales. It aims to level the playing field between landlords and tenants by providing renters with better security, rights and protections. This includes improving laws surrounding discrimination against tenants and improving the enforcement of safe housing and lawful action.

Why now?

The existing (and lack of) regulations and laws in place to protect renters have become even more apparent amidst the ongoing housing crisis, forcing the Government to review the laws affecting the private rental sector.

How will they do it?

  • Abolishing Section 21 ‘no fault evictions’
    Removing the threat of evictions without good reason. New regulations will be introduced so landlords can reclaim their properties when they need to

  • Strengthening tenants’ rights and protections
    Introduction of new laws to end rental bidding wars, and to encourage tenants to challenge rent increases designed to force them out
    Giving tenants the right to request a pet is something landlords must consider and cannot unreasonably refuse. Landlords can request insurance to cover potential damage from pets if needed

  • Introducing a ‘Decent Homes Standard’
    To help ensure homes are safe, secure and hazard-free

  • Applying ‘Awaab’s Law’
    Setting clear legal deadlines for landlords to address serious hazards in private rental homes

  • Creating a digital private rented sector database
    Combining key information for landlords and tenants to help them access information on their legal rights and obligations

  • Introducing a new ombudsman service
    To provide fair, impartial and binding resolution between landlords and tenants and reduce the need to go to court

  • Making it illegal for landlords to discriminate against tenants in receipt of benefits or those with children

  • Strengthening local councils’ enforcement powers
    Making it easier for councils to identify and fine landlords who don’t comply with the law

Will it work?

In theory, yes. If carried out successfully, these proposals will improve the standard and safety of rented housing. However, the bill fails to tackle two key issues that the private sector is suffering from: a lack of housing, and rising rents.