Government extends eviction ban until 31st May

The Coronavirus pandemic continues to exert its effect on the lettings industry.

 In a Nutshell 

Bailiff enforced evictions extended in England until 31 May 2021

Current 6 months’ notice periods extended until at least 31 May 2021 except in the following circumstances:

 - Anti-social behaviour (four weeks’ notice)

- False statements provided by the tenant (two to four weeks’ notice)

- Over 6 months’ accumulated rent arrears (four weeks’ notice)

- Breach of immigration rules under the ‘Right to Rent’ policy (three months’ notice)

 As well as an extension to the bailiff ban, landlords and letting agents will also still have to give six months’ notice of their intention to evict. Scotland and Wales introduced similar measures banning eviction orders until 31 March 2021 – though these may be extended further still – while in Northern Ireland, landlords need to give 12 weeks' notice before eviction.

What does this mean for you as a landlord?

 Tenants who were served with evictions notices late in May won’t face physical eviction until at least November. For 50% of the sector, of whom only own one property, it is a tough situation and a rocky road ahead. The courts are inundated so it is vital you follow all pre-action protocol advice before taking action through the courts. All avenues to reach an agreement should be exhausted before seeking repossession, whether it be through reduced rent or short term payment plans.

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