Under the Renters (Reform) Bill, that was introduced to parliament last month, landlords will only be able to evict tenants in England under certain circumstances. This includes if they want to sell the property, or a close family member would move into the property. If they do evict their tenants for the reason above, landlords will not be able to re-let their property for three months. Breaching the new rules also carries a fine of up to £30,000.
The Local Government Association (LGA) has welcomed the changes but has said that the councils would struggle to police this property as it would be the councils that would be responsible for enforcement. Therefore, the councils would need more staff and funding to enforce the ban on no-fault evictions in England effectively.
Environmental Officers believe that there is insufficient staff to investigate breaches of the new law.
Further concerns have been raised regarding the lack of staff and funding. Local Authorities argue that they are already stretched and do not have the recourses to enforce their current housing duties.
The government has said that they would fully fund any additional costs for councils. A Department for Housing, Levelling Up and Communities spokesman said: "We will continue to support councils financially so they have the right resources to put tenants first, that includes fully funding any additional costs that may fall on councils as a result of our proposed reforms."
By Elisse Ricketts
Disclaimer: the above is not to take the place of legal advice. The above will be correct at the time of posting, but the law changes constantly and therefore the above should not be relied upon.