Renters Reform Bill represents a key moment in the evolution of the rental sector

Landlords’ rights to reclaim their property after tenant misconduct are to be strengthened thanks to a forthcoming law. First announced in the Queen’s Speech in December 2019, the introduction of the Renters Reform Bill represents a key moment in the evolution of the rental sector.

What the New Legislation Proposes

The bill’s primary objective is to establish a fair and expeditious framework capable of handling tenant misconduct and allowing landlords to reclaim possession of their properties in cases where tenants have failed to uphold their legal obligations.

This proposed legislation isn’t a random initiative but a response to the growing concern about the balance of power between landlords and tenants.

The current ‘no-fault eviction’ regulations, encapsulated under Section 21 of the 1988 Housing Act, have faced criticism for favouring landlords excessively. The advent of the Renters (Reform) Bill is thus seen as a corrective measure aiming to restore balance by providing landlords with robust protection without undermining tenants’ rights.

But the bill is about the empowerment of landlords, too, allowing them to swiftly regain control of their properties in the face of tenant misconduct, arguably the bill’s defining feature.

Of course, most tenants have a responsible attitude towards their rented homes, treating them with respect and maintaining them diligently. Unfortunately, there are instances where this is not so.

A small but significant proportion of tenants, through negligence or wilful misconduct, leave properties in various states of disrepair, leading to a wide array of challenges for landlords.

When the bill is enacted as law and allows landlords more rights in reclamation, there will be the opportunity to clean up the mess that many of these unruly occupants leave behind. Such challenges can range from accumulating rubbish and discarded possessions to environmental waste or even dangerous objects such as sharps and needles.

Considerable property damage is also not unheard of, creating real financial implications for landlords. Such circumstances are stressful and can delay the process of preparing the property for the next tenant, leading to a potential loss of rental income.

Beyond the problem of tenant waste, landlords also face the prospect of their vacant properties becoming targets for vandalism and arson. These risks present additional challenges and potential financial loss, compelling the argument for professional intervention and security solutions.

Secure steel sheeting, property clearance services, CCTV surveillance, and security alarms can offer landlords much-needed peace of mind and ensure their properties are adequately protected during that vulnerable vacancy period.

With the impending enactment of the Renters Reform Bill, the process of reclaiming properties is set to become more streamlined for landlords. The opportunity to mitigate the challenges posed by tenant misconduct and protect their property investments more effectively is a significant advantage for landlords. Coupled with professional support, landlords can look forward to more equitable legal protections and a smoother process in preparing their properties for future tenants.

Michael Knibbs, Manager Director at SafeSite Security Solutions, says: “The Renters Reform Bill represents a pivotal moment for rental law in the UK, providing a more balanced approach to managing tenant misconduct and enabling landlords to manage their properties more effectively.

“By using professional property clearance and security services, landlords can navigate this new landscape more efficiently, ensuring their properties are clean, secure, and ready to welcome the next responsible tenant.”

If you need a clearance and security company with bespoke solutions for your rental property, contact SafeSite Security Solutions to discuss how their experts can help.