The Renters’ Reform Bill, which has garnered significant attention recently, has experienced another setback in its journey through Parliament. For those considering dipping their toes into the property investment waters, or for current landlords, it’s essential to understand what this delay means, its implications, and the concerns surrounding it.

Understanding the Recent Delay

The Renters’ Reform Bill, eagerly awaited by many, has faced yet another postponement. The government has announced that the second reading of the legislation, a crucial step in the bill’s progression, will now be shelved until after the party conference season concludes on October 16th.

Considering the tight schedule, there is a concern that there may be insufficient time for the bill’s second reading before the King’s Speech on November 7th. This significant address outlines Parliament’s priorities for the upcoming year.

Potential Challenges in the Parliamentary Timetable

With the whirlwind of parliamentary sessions, there seems to be no available slot in the current timetable for the bill’s second reading. However, the National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA) remains optimistic. They believe the Bill will be carried forward to the next parliamentary session, post the King’s Speech.

As Chris Norris, the policy director at the NRLA, highlighted to Property118: “Parliament has a limited number of sittings between the summer and party conference breaks. Therefore, it was somewhat anticipated that the Bill might face delays in its second reading.”

However, he also expressed disappointment at the missed opportunity before the summer recess. Norris is optimistic that the Bill will be carried forward into the next parliamentary session. This would mean that the Bill has until the next General Election to be discussed and debated in both houses of parliament.

The Call for Clarification

There’s a silver lining to this delay. It offers the government an opportunity to further refine and clarify aspects of the bill. As Mr Norris rightly points out, it’s crucial to address details about court reforms and periodic tenancies for students. “For the bill’s reforms to succeed,” Norris stated, “We need courts that are adequately funded and up to the task. The government must utilize this added time to offer clarity on their plans to enhance the courts’ service, especially in the context of renters’ reforms.”

A Plea for Timeliness and the Potential Consequences of Delays

There’s a growing sense of urgency surrounding the Renters’ Reform Bill. It’s been over four years since the government first introduced its intentions to bolster renters’ rights. This includes the proposed abolition of the controversial section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions.

According to data from Generation Rent, within 120 days following the Bill’s first reading in May, a staggering 10,633 households faced eviction under Section 21, averaging 87 households per day.

Ben Twomey, the chief executive of Generation Rent, recently reached out to Michael Gove, pressing the need for a swift second reading debate immediately after Parliament’s conference recess. He voiced the anxiety of many: “The continual delay of the Renters (Reform) Bill means more renters are grappling with unexpected evictions, the financial burden, and the associated stress.”

Twomey warns of the genuine risk that persistent delays might result in the Bill never being codified into law, despite its popularity. He adds, “The potential loss of this critical reform opportunity cannot be understated. We cannot allow this golden chance at reform to slip away.”

It’s interesting to note that the NRLA doesn’t find the delay surprising. The path to introducing such a significant reform is naturally fraught with challenges and hurdles.

Conclusion

For prospective property investors and landlords, understanding the Renters’ Reform Bill’s journey is paramount. This bill, if passed, will bring forth significant shifts in the rights of renters and, in turn, the responsibilities of landlords. As the debates continue and further developments unfold, it’s crucial to stay informed, proactive, and adaptive to the ever-changing UK property landscape.