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New coalition calls on government to abolish Section 21 one year after Queen’s Speech
Nineteen leading organisations have called on the government to abolish ‘no fault’ evictions, one year after it promised to do so in the opening of this parliament.
The Renters Reform Coalition, which includes Generation Rent, Crisis, the Greater London Authority and the Nationwide Foundation, has said the government should use the upcoming Renters Reform Bill to abolish Section 21 evictions.
It added that the government should use the bill to improve the condition of privately rented homes and create a system within which renters feel empowered to stand up for their rights.
The government committed to bringing forward a Renters Reform Bill, in the Queen’s Speech in December last year.
It promised the bill would “enhance renters’ security” by abolishing Section 21 evictions and introducing a lifetime deposit.
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Landlords can serve Section 21 evictions on tenants who have assured shorthold tenancies after any fixed term in their contract ends. They do not have to give a reason for the eviction.
The government has repeatedly said it will wait to ban Section 21 evictions until after the immediate challenges of responding to the COVID-19 crisis are over.
This is despite calls from several charities to expedite the Section 21 ban, to avoid a surge following the end of the COVID-19 ban on evictions.
The government introduced the ban on possession proceedings in March, but this came to an end in September. However, the government has called for a ‘Christmas truce’ on evictions by asking bailiffs not to enforce court orders.
This truce is due to end on 11 January, but the Renters Reform Coalition is calling for the government to extend the deadline for renters living in Tier 2 and 3 lockdown areas.
Bridget Young, programme manager at the Nationwide Foundation, said: “The government has pledged to end Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions, and one year ago we welcomed its plans to reform private renting in the upcoming Renters’ Reform Bill.
“This bill is an opportunity to redesign our housing system, creating a fairer balance between renters and landlords. Implemented correctly, these reforms are also a chance to improve the safety, security and condition of privately rented homes.
“We are looking forward to working with the government and other partners, to take this opportunity to deliver a more just housing system. The coalition is a broad group but we are united in our belief that everyone needs a safe, affordable and secure home, where they can live and flourish.”
