Robert Jenrick

Eviction ban extended




Housing secretary Robert Jenrick has announced that the ban on evictions has been extended for another four weeks, meaning that no legal evictions will have taken place for six months.

Renters affected by coronavirus will continue to be protected and can expect landlords to provide six months’ notice until at least the end of March — bar those cases raising serious issues such as those involving anti-social behaviour and domestic abuse perpetrators. 

The government will keep these measures under review with decisions guided by the latest public health advice.

When courts do resume eviction hearings, they will carefully prioritise the most egregious cases, ensuring landlords are able to progress the most serious cases, such as those involving anti-social behaviour and other crimes, as well as where landlords have not received rent for over a year and would otherwise face unmanageable debts.

“I know this year has been challenging and all of us are still living with the effects of Covid-19,” said Jenrick.

“That is why [I] am announcing a further four-week ban on evictions, meaning no renters will have been evicted for six months.

“I am also increasing protections for renters — six-month notice periods must be given to tenants, supporting renters over winter.

“However, it is right that the most egregious cases, for example those involving anti-social behaviour or domestic abuse perpetrators, begin to be heard in court again; and so when courts reopen, landlords will once again be able to progress these priority cases.”

According to independent research, 87% of tenants have continued to pay full rent since the start of the pandemic, with a further 8% agreeing reduced fees with their landlords.

The government confirmed that the vast majority of landlords have shown understanding and leadership, and have taken action to support tenants.

It is set to continue to work with the judiciary and stakeholders so that courts are prepared for eviction cases to be heard safely.

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