Anitha Anton Motham (Student)
It has been stated by housing secretary Robert Jenrick that renters will be protected during this difficult time.
The eviction ban has been extended until the end of May.
According to Robert Jenrick the government have taken unprecedented actions in order to help both tenants and landlords.
However, many charities have also stated that the government have not done enough to support both parties.
The extension on the eviction ban ensures that bailiff evictions are banned until 31st May, however there are exceptions that remain in more serious circumstances.
These include:
- Illegal occupation
- False statements provided by the tenant
- Anti-social behaviour
- Arrears of 6 months’ rent or more
- Breach of Immigration rules.
Landlords have also been required to give 6 months’ notice period to tenants before any proceedings are started unless the above exceptions apply. There is additional help for renters as the government will distribute Discretionary Housing Payments to councils.
If there are any issues between tenants and landlords, then the government has launched a free mediation platform to support both parties and resolve any disputes before it escalates. This will benefit tenants when there are in the early stages of the possession process and may prevent them becoming homeless and find another accommodation.
Only 548 repossessions were recorded between April and December 2020 compared to 22,444 in the same period in 2019.
Staffordshire University Legal Advice Clinic offers free legal advice on all housing issues. If you would like an appointment please call 01782 294458 or email SULAC@staffs.ac.uk