Government announces Christmas “truce” for renters facing eviction

Last month the Government extended the notice period for evictions to six-months as well extending the ban on possession proceedings until 20th September 2020 (find more information on this here). The Government has now announced further support for renters over the Christmas period.

The Government has confirmed that no evictions will be permitted in England and Wales in the run-up to, and over Christmas, except in exceptional cases such as those involving anti-social behaviour, fraud, or domestic abuse.

In addition, if an area is in a local lockdown that includes a restriction on gathering in homes, evictions will not be enforced by bailiffs.

The Government has not yet confirmed start date or end date during which the above policies will be in effect.

Housing Secretary Rt Hon Robert Jenrick MP said:

“It’s right that we strike a balance between protecting vulnerable renters and ensuring landlords whose tenants have behaved in illegal or anti-social ways have access to justice. Our legislation means such cases will be subject to shorter notice periods and then prioritised through the judiciary’s new court processes.”

Polly Neate, chief executive of Shelter, welcomed the decision by the government, but noted:

“For renters served notice after August, the measures simply delay the threat of homelessness.”

More information

Pinney Talfourd are experts in residential property litigation and can advise you on changes to the law so you are given up to date advice.

Please do not hesitate to contact either Stephen Eccles by email or on 01708 463202 or Oliver-James Topping by email or on 01708 463227 should you wish to discuss anything further.

This article was written by Oliver-James Topping, Solicitor in the Residential Property Litigation at Pinney Talfourd LLP Solicitors. The contents of this article are for the purposes of general awareness only. They do not purport to constitute legal or professional advice. Specific legal advice should be taken on each individual matter. This article is based on the law as of September 2020.