The government has stated that section 21 ‘no fault’ repossessions will not be abolished until reforms have been implement with regard to existing legitimate possession cases.
Currently it takes more than 6 months for courts to process possession claims which involve landlords having good cause, such as anti-social behaviour, tenant arrears etc.
MPs will be debating the Renters (Reform) Bill today, and in advance of that government has confirmed that the implementation of the new system for repossessing properties will not be going ahead until “significant progress” has been made to improve the courts. That means that the abolition of section 21 will not be taking place until reforms to the existing justice system are solidified and in motion.
Ben Beadle, chief executive of the National Residential Landlords Association, said:
“Reform of the rental market will only work if it has the confidence of responsible landlords every bit as much as tenants. This is especially important given the rental housing supply crisis renters now face.
Following extensive campaigning by the NRLA, we welcome the approach taken by ministers to ensure court improvements are made before section 21 ends.
We will continue to engage positively with all parties as the Bill progresses through Parliament.”
