Is renting too expensive in the UK? Have your say
Landmark renters' rights legislation is set to be introduced this year, sparking debate over whether the measures are sufficient. The Renters' Rights Bill is poised to revolutionise the rental market in favour of tenants, with the government pledging to scrap the controversial section 21 "no-fault" evictions, cap initial payments, and bolster enforcement of housing standards.
Have your say! What has your experience been of renting privately in the UK, or the experience of friends and family? Is it too expensive to find decent rented housing? Comment below, and join in on the conversation.
The bill targets a key grievance among UK renters: the no-fault eviction. This "section 21" notice allows landlords to evict tenants without a specific reason once their fixed-term lease ends or if they have a rolling contract.
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Advocates of the reforms have been anticipating these changes for years, with the concept first surfacing under the Conservative administration but facing delays due to concerns about its effects on landlords.
The bill seeks to enhance the accessibility and stability of renting by limiting advance rent payments to just one month's rent and providing increased support for those contesting perceived unjust rent hikes.
The Labour government has dismissed calls from some campaigners for rent control, which would involve a body being given the power to cap rents in a certain area or prevent rent from rising faster than a point like inflation or wage growth. Ministers are concerned that such measures could lead to a reduction in housing supply and deter investment, ultimately making renting less accessible.
Tom Darling, director of the Renters' Reform Coalition, spoke to the Mirror about the significance of reforms for the UK, but emphasised the need for further action on limiting costs. He said: "If you're right on the breadline and your budget has already been massively squeezed by the cost of living, a huge rent increase will act as a sort of de facto eviction notice for you."
A spokesperson for the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government commented on the issue, stating: "Our Renters' Rights Bill will strengthen tenants' rights by banning section 21 'no fault' evictions and while we do not have plans to introduce rent controls, we are taking action to cap rent payable at the start of a tenancy to one month, end unfair bidding wars, and give tenants stronger powers to challenge excessive rent hikes. This is alongside boosting supply by building 1.5 million homes as part of our Plan for Change."
Have your say! What has your experience been of renting privately in the UK, or the experience of friends and family? Is it too expensive to find decent rented housing? Comment below, and join in on the conversation.