Overview

The Crown Tenancies Bill aims to clarify the application of the Housing Act 1988 to properties owned by the Crown. It largely brings Crown tenancies under the assured tenancy regime, while providing exceptions for properties used by the armed forces or for specific government purposes.

Description

This Bill amends the Housing Act 1988 to modify how Crown tenancies (properties owned by the Crown or government departments) are treated under the assured tenancy framework. Key changes include:

• Most Crown tenancies become assured tenancies: The bill largely includes Crown tenancies under the assured tenancies regime of the 1988 Act, offering tenants greater protections. An exception is made for dwellings "within the Act limits" of the High Speed Rail (London - West Midlands) Act 2015.
• Power to exempt certain Crown tenancies: The Secretary of State gains the power to add or remove types of Crown tenancies from the assured tenancy system via regulations, requiring parliamentary approval.
• Specific grounds for possession: New grounds for possession are added, specifically allowing for repossession of Crown properties needed by the armed forces or for Welsh government operational reasons. These reasons must be certified by the Secretary of State or Welsh Ministers respectively.
• Rent exceptions for HM forces: The Bill prevents rent increase and rent tribunal applications for Crown tenancies used by Her Majesty's forces.
• Definition of Crown tenancies: The bill provides a clear definition of "Crown tenancy" within the context of the Housing Act 1988.

Government Spending

The Bill's impact on government spending is not directly quantified in the provided text. However, potential changes could arise from altering rent regulations and processes for managing Crown properties.

Groups Affected

• Crown tenants: Many will gain greater security and protection under assured tenancy rights. However, those in properties used by the armed forces or Welsh government will have different arrangements.
• Her Majesty's forces: The bill will facilitate the ability to obtain possession of Crown properties for operational purposes.
• Welsh Government: The bill grants the Welsh government more control over certain Crown properties in their jurisdiction.
• The Secretary of State: Gains power to regulate the application of the assured tenancy provisions.
• Rent Tribunals: Will have reduced involvement in cases involving Crown properties used by HM forces.

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