Overview

The Renters' Rights Bill aims to enhance the rights and protections of renters in England. Key changes include increased access to a database of rogue landlords, a ban on certain letting fees, mandatory electrical safety checks, and preventing rogue landlords from obtaining HMO licenses.

Description

This bill makes several key changes to existing legislation:

• Access to Rogue Landlord Database: Tenants and prospective tenants will gain access to a database of landlords and agents with a history of misconduct.
• Ban on Letting Fees: Letting agents will be prohibited from charging tenants fees beyond the rent and deposit. The Secretary of State can specify exceptions and maximum allowable amounts for certain fees through regulations.
• Mandatory Electrical Safety Checks: Landlords will be legally required to conduct electrical safety checks in rental properties at least every five years. This will require parliamentary approval of regulations setting out the specifics of these checks.
• Preventing Rogue Landlords from Obtaining HMO Licenses: The bill prevents landlords on the rogue landlord database from obtaining a license to operate a house in multiple occupation (HMO).

Government Spending

The bill's financial impact on government spending is not explicitly stated in the text. The costs associated with implementing and enforcing the new regulations (particularly the mandatory electrical safety checks) are likely to be incurred, although the exact amount is unclear.

Groups Affected

• Tenants: Will benefit from greater protection against rogue landlords, lower costs associated with renting, and improved safety standards in their homes.
• Landlords: Will face increased regulatory burdens, including mandatory electrical safety checks and restrictions on charging fees. Rogue landlords will be prevented from operating HMOs.
• Letting Agents: Will be prohibited from charging certain fees, potentially impacting their profitability.
• Local Housing Authorities: Will be responsible for implementing and enforcing the new regulations and providing access to the rogue landlord database.

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