The government has extended the bailiff-enforced eviction ban insisting that it protects the most vulnerable tenants during the pandemic and third lockdown.
The official announcement stated: “Renters will continue to be supported during the new national restrictions, with an extension to the ban on bailiff evictions for all but the most egregious cases for at least 6 weeks – until at least 21 February – with measures kept under review.
Robert Jenrick MP said: “We are also extending the ban on bailiff evictions – helping to protect the most vulnerable renters. Court rules and procedures introduced in September to support both tenants and landlords will remain in place and regularly reviewed. The courts will continue to prioritise cases, such as those involving anti-social behaviour, illegal occupation and perpetrators of domestic abuse in the social sector.”
“…Landlords continue to be required to give 6-month notice periods to tenants until at least 31 March except in the most serious circumstances.”
“…A new mediation pilot will further support landlords and renters who face court procedures and potential eviction from next month (February). It will offer mediation as part of the possession process to try and help landlords and tenants to reach a mutual agreement and keep people in their homes.
“Helping to resolve disputes through mediation will enable courts to prioritise urgent cases, supporting landlords and tenants to resolve issues quickly without the need for a formal hearing. The mediation pilot will work within the existing court arrangements in England and Wales.
“The protections for renters are on top of the comprehensive package of support the government has put in place to help households, including support for businesses to pay staff salaries and strengthening the welfare safety-net by billions of pounds.
“This has helped to protect renters from the economic fallout of the pandemic by supporting them meet their outgoings, including paying their rent.”
The eviction bans that were brought in last year due to the pandemic have seen a dramatic fall in the normal level of evictions.
Between April and September 2020 no repossessions were recorded compared to 15k from the same period in 2019.
There is further government guidance for landlords and renters here ↓
If you have a large property or HMO you currently let just planned to let, but with all the uncertainty in the market you are considering your options, don’t hesitate to give us a call. We specialise in these types of properties and can help you to evaluate your options.
Call 0161 850 5588 or email info@armisteadproperty.co.uk
Thanks for reading
Peter Armistead
Founder, Armistead Property
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