An Important Evictions Update for Landlords

A 60-second update.

Yesterday the Government made changes to the six-month eviction notice periods law which were introduced in a bid to stop people being evicted from their homes due to the impact Covid-19 is having on their finances.

This means the new, longer notice periods will run from today, 29th August until 31st March. However, there are several instances where shorter notice periods can be given.

These include:

Domestic violence – two weeks’ notice.
Obtaining a tenancy through fraud – two weeks’ notice.
Anti-social behaviour- four weeks’ notice.
Rent arrears over six months – four weeks’ notice.
Immigration status cases – three months’ notice.

Rental property industry bodies have lobbied the Government for more clarity around the eviction process and legalities.

Speaking to estate agency industry magazine The Negotiator, trade body ARLA said the legislation is not retrospective: “Section 21 (eviction) notices served before today (Saturday 29th) should retain a three-month notice period. However, any notices issued from now onwards must be served based on a six-month notice period.”

Ben Beadle, Chief Executive of the National Residential Landlords Association, said: “The announcement provides welcome clarity about how possession cases will be handled. “But it will mean nothing without a complete guarantee that the courts will hear cases from 20th September.”

If you are a landlord who wants to discuss the recent changes and the best ways to protect your rental income and stay the right side of the law, please contact us.