For some months now, all in the residential property industry have been working on the basis that the Renters' Rights Bill would have received Royal Assent by the time MPs packed their suncream and beach reads and headed off on their summer holidays.
Delays in the Legislative Process
But it seems increasingly unlikely that the Bill will become law before the parliamentary recess (which is due in less than 3 weeks). The Bill is currently at the Report stage before the House of Lords, with the last session due to take place on 15 July. At that stage, the Bill is due to then go before the Lords for a third reading, before then passing back to the House of Commons. At that stage, the amendments suggested by the House of Lords will be considered. Parliamentary ping pong could then ensue, before the Bill finally reaches the Royal Assent stage.
Why the Bill Matters
The Renters’ Rights Bill is one of the most significant pieces of legislation for the private rental sector in years. Among other measures, it proposes the abolition of Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions, new minimum housing standards, and enhanced enforcement powers for local authorities. These reforms aim to rebalance rights between tenants and landlords, and improve stability for renters.
A Crowded Legislative Agenda
The fact time is running out to get the Bill finalised before the summer break is perhaps unsurprising; the Kings Speech in July 2024 laid down a hefty legislative agenda for the Government, with major changes proposed for (amongst other things) the planning regime and employment rights, in addition, of course, to the proposals for rental reform.
Looking Ahead
It is still possible the Bill may just creep over the line before the recess. If not, then it seems likely the Bill will be carried over, to be picked up again in the Autumn. At present, it is business as usual for the AST.
