Radical reform of private rental sector announced by government

The Queen’s Speech has confirmed that a radical re-shaping of the rental sector is being pushed ahead by the government.

Although the relatively brief speech delivered by Prince Charles - deputising for Her Majesty - made superficial reference to housing and planning, details released just after the speech and reported by Sky News put flesh on the bones. 

A Bill will abolish what the government has called 'no fault' evictions - section 21 evictions - “giving renters better rights when they are told to leave despite complying with the terms of their tenancy.”

The details also say that there will be additional reform of landlords' grounds for possession to give them greater powers to tackle repeated rent arrears or anti-social behaviour among tenants.

In addition, a new ombudsman for private rented landlords will ensure disputes can be easily resolved without going to court.

“These reforms will help more people own their own homes” according to the government.

The Leasehold Reform Act 2022 will come into force on 30 June, and this will - amongst other things - stop landlords requiring ground rent for new long residential leases.

It will also mean banning new leasehold houses to ensure that all new houses built are freehold.