The initial ban on evictions was introduced at the start of the pandemic, and after a so-called ‘Christmas-truce’ and previous extensions which pushed the end date to 22 February, the new extension will now be in place until 31 March. The UK Government has said that again, the measures will be kept under review in line with the latest public health advice.
Eviction exemptions
Exemptions remain in place for the most serious circumstances that cause the greatest strain on landlords as well as other residents and neighbours, these include:
- illegal occupation
- false statement
- anti-social behaviour
- where a property is unoccupied following the death of a tenant
- extreme rent arrears
Notice periods
Landlords are also required to give six-month notice periods to tenants before starting possession proceedings, except in the most serious circumstances, meaning that most renters now served notice can stay in the property until at least August 2021.
Financial support for tenants
Councils also have access to an existing £180 million of funding through Discretionary Housing Payments which can be distributed to renters to support them with their housing costs.
Evictions by court proceedings
The Court rules and procedures introduced in September will remain in place and regularly reviewed, with courts continuing to prioritise the most cases, such as those involving anti-social behaviour, illegal occupation and perpetrators of domestic abuse.
New mediation pilot
The UK Government also launched a free mediation pilot to support landlords and tenants to resolve disputes before a formal court hearing takes place. The new service offers mediation as part of the possession process to try and help landlords and tenants reach a mutual agreement and keep people in their homes.
Resolving disputes through mediation will enable the courts to prioritise urgent cases and will help resolve issues more quickly without the need for a formal hearing.
Whilst this announcement was not unexpected it does little to help the repercussions of the mounting crisis in the private rented sector. The UK Government must urgently follow the lead of Scottish and Welsh Governments and put measures in place to support tenants with COVID-19 rent-related debt to avoid a cliff edge when the ban is lifted.
Propertymark's covid-related rent arrears campaign
Propertymark continues to focus on campaigning for Government support for COVID-related rent arrears in England in order to #keeptherentflowing.
Covid-19 support
Since the coronavirus pandemic erupted, we have been working with government departments and politicians to ensure that our members get the support they need, and the property sector can operate safely.
The latest message from ARLA Propertymark President Angela Davey, outlines the measures that should be put in place, our serious concerns about landlords exiting the sector and asks every member to join the campaign by contacting their MP, referencing cases in your area.
