Renters can often get a raw deal when it comes to their living situations and conditions. Not all landlords are good or kind, and not all are too concerned with how their tenants are living, just how much they pay, and if they pay. And of course, all tenants need to abide by their tenancy agreements and conditions to upkeep the property in good condition, the landlord doesn't get off lightly, and they cannot just do whatever they want simply because they own the property.
Property laws are forever evolving to deliver more rights and protections for both renters and landlords alike. And both parties need to follow the rule of the law for a mutually beneficial relationship that benefits both parties. As a tenant, here are 5 new UK rental rules you absolutely should be aware of.
By Team Savant
Image: Allwyn Mendes
No More “Just Because" Evictions
New changes mean that landlords will not not allowed to evict tenants because they want or need the property back as soon as possible. This practice, known as a Section 21 no-fault eviction, is still legal, but proposed reforms aim to change this. Soon, the landlord will need a legitimate reason to evict someone, i.e., rent arrears or antisocial behaviour. This also provides greater protection for tenants, as in theory, they will be able to feel more secure in their own homes.
No More Fixed-Term Rental Agreements
Tenancies are now becoming more flexible. The upcoming Renters’ Rights Bill, if enacted, will eliminate fixed terms in favour of rolling contracts. This is in line with the above point as it will also ensure landlords cannot use the “Section 21” notice anymore. All tenancies will be periodic and tenants, instead of moving out by the last day of their fixed term tenancy, will have to give 2 months' notice when they plan to move out.
Fairer Rents
Anyone who has tried to find a new rental home will attest to the spiralling costs of renting properties that were once affordable. New rules mean rent increases will be capped at a certain rate and must reflect market rates, and every tenant will pay a fair rent. Tenants will also have the ability to appeal a price hike if it looks sketchy.
Healthy Homes
The sad death of Awaab Ishak, who died due to dangerous mould in his home, has sparked Awaab’s Law. This law means that the landlord must address serious health hazards, such as mould or dampness, on the premises to avoid penalties. Every tenant has the right to live in a home that is safe and has no negative impact on their health. If your landlord is violating these laws, you can now pursue further actions. Once only applicable to social housing, this is now extended to private rentals, and tenant compensation for inconvenience in the UK can be sought if their landlord is not cooperative in these circumstances.
Easier Deposit Return
Ever ignored fighting for your full deposit back because you didn't know how it was classified as a fair decision, or didn't have the right evidence to dispute it? You're not alone, and around half of renters didn't know they could do this, and of those who did, only 4% actually fought for their deposit to be returned in full or had unfair charges removed. The government is reviewing this unfair loophole so that people can receive their deposit back more easily, and landlords have rules they need to abide by for returning the deposit (within 14 days) and demonstrate charges are fair.