Overview

The Rented Homes Bill aims to abolish assured shorthold tenancies in England and expand the circumstances under which landlords can legally evict tenants. It introduces new grounds for possession, requires more stringent evidence for eviction, and includes transitional provisions to manage the change.

Description

This bill significantly alters the 1988 Housing Act. Key changes include:

• Abolition of Assured Shorthold Tenancies (ASTs): ASTs, a common type of tenancy agreement in England, will be eliminated. Existing ASTs will continue for three years after the act comes into force, but those granted after the act comes into force will be governed by the new legislation. Exceptions are made for tenancies granted before the act's commencement, and those relating to agreements entered into before the act's commencement.
• Expanded Grounds for Possession: The bill modifies the grounds under which a landlord can seek possession of a property. New grounds are added, including:
• Landlord's intention to live in the property (with stricter evidence requirements).
• Landlord's intention to sell the property (requiring proof of active marketing).
• Landlord's intention to refurbish the property (with evidence of impracticality of continued tenant occupancy).
• A family member of the landlord's intention to live in the property (with stricter evidence requirements).
• Property required for religious purposes (with specific evidence requirements).
• Strengthened Evidence Requirements: The bill demands more substantial evidence from landlords seeking possession, requiring oral and written evidence to support their claims.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify government spending changes. The impact on government spending is likely indirect, potentially affecting housing benefits and related social services depending on the number of evictions and the resulting impact on homelessness.

Groups Affected

The bill will significantly impact various groups:

• Tenants: Tenants will have fewer protections under the new tenancy system, but may have improved security if the criteria for eviction is more strictly enforced.
• Landlords: Landlords will face stricter requirements for evicting tenants, needing to provide more substantial evidence. They will face a change in tenancies and possibly a shift in the rental market.
• Housing Courts: Courts will handle more complex eviction cases due to the strengthened evidence requirements.
• Local Authorities: Local authorities may see increased demand for housing assistance if evictions rise.

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