Good landlords have nothing to fear – Polly Neate

Polly Neate, the chief executive of the housing charity Shelter, says that good landlords have nothing to fear from the Renters’ Reform Bill which could ‘transform the lives of millions’.

Writing in the Sunday Times, Ms Neate says that since the deregulation of private renting in the Housing Act of 1988, the balance of power has been disproportionately skewed against tenants.

And with an ever-growing number of renters over the years, the issue of security has transformed into a pressing concern that demands immediate attention.

She says the Bill aims to address these concerns by providing a comprehensive solution that caters to the essential needs of every tenant – and create a more balanced and secure environment for all parties involved.

‘Breakthrough moment for tenants’

Ms Neate said: “The publication of the Renters’ Reform Bill last month was a breakthrough moment for tenants.

“It will drag private renting into the 21st century so that it’s a fit place to live for the one in four families who now rely on it for a home.”

She adds: “Landlords will benefit too.

“A strong bill should drive up standards and stop the minority of negligent landlords from undermining all those who follow the law and work hard to do right by their tenants.

“Similar reforms in Scotland haven’t led to a mass sell-up by private landlords.”

Provide relief to millions of tenants

In the Times’ article, Ms Neate says the potential impact of the Bill cannot be overstated and it will provide relief to millions of tenants struggling with housing issues.

She says that from distressed parents dealing with eviction notices during their child’s critical exam period, to tenants suffering severe health problems due to landlords neglecting property maintenance, this new legislation promises significant improvements.

She points to ‘two pivotal changes’: abolishing section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions and establishing a mandatory property portal for landlord registration.

‘Scrapping no-fault evictions is well overdue’

Ms Neate writes: “Scrapping no-fault evictions is well overdue. More than 24,000 households were threatened with homelessness under no-fault evictions last year, about a 50% increase on 2021.

“Tenants need protection from having the roof ripped from over their heads for no reason and with barely any notice.

“No responsible landlord need fear the end of section 21.

“If they need to sell their property or move back into it themselves, they will still be able to.”

Without the fear of losing their homes

The Bill will also, she says, give tenants the confidence to address property issues without the fear of losing their homes.

Pointing to Shelter stats, Ms Neate says private renters in England who report substandard living conditions are two and a half times more likely to receive an eviction notice.

The planned property portal will simplify the process for landlords to understand their obligations and allow tenants to verify their landlord’s identity and adherence to legal standards.

The bill also promises more local authority enforcement and prohibiting discriminatory practices against tenants receiving benefits or those with children.

‘Laws will be in place to protect everyone’

Ms Neate said: “We hope that by the end of the year laws will be in place to protect everyone waking up in an unsafe home today, who is too afraid to ask their landlord to fulfil their responsibilities, from being kicked out for speaking out.

“The housing secretary, Michael Gove, has spoken passionately about the poor conditions and insecurity in private renting, and he has not minced his words in demanding change.”

She adds: “But those bold words must now be matched with bold action from his fellow MPs.

“No loopholes can be allowed to open for unfair evictions to continue by the back door once section 21 is abolished.”