Understanding Rent Increases in the Private Rented Sector
Navigating rent increases in the private rented sector can be challenging for both Landlords and Tenants. With rising housing costs and changing market conditions, it's essential to understand the legal process and best practice when dealing with rent.
In England, rent increases in the private rented sector are governed by several pieces of legislation, most notably:
Housing Act 1988
Tenant Fees Act 2019
Consumer Rights Act 2015
Complete Ban on Evictions and Additional Protection for Renters
In unprecedented times, the Government announces radical package of measures to protect renters and landlords affected by coronavirus.
Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government and The Rt Hon Robert Jenrick MP
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Emergency legislation to suspend new evictions from social or private rented accommodation while this national emergency is taking place
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No new possession proceedings through applications to the court to start during the crisis
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Landlords will also be protected as 3 month mortgage payment holiday is extended to Buy to Let mortgages
Government to Help Tenants with Rent
Boris Johnson announced this morning that there would be some assistance and support for tenants who will struggle meeting rent payments. He referenced the fact that tenants should not be penalised in any way and be “evicted” through no fault of their own, yet this does not give us any indication of what provision will be put in place to assist tenants who may incur arrears. However, the Prime Minister did not confirm, but Breaking News is that landlords will not be able to start court proceedings against tenants for 3 months. Legislation will be passed to deal with this very soon.
For letting agents and landlords it is very important to have the discussion sooner rather than later as to how rent payments, late rent payments and rent areas will be managed.