As we emerge from a second national lockdown in England and return into the tiered system, housing secretary – Robert Jenrick – has confirmed tenants will remain protected over winter.
What are the restrictions?
During the second lockdown, it was announced that no bailiff enforcement action will be allowed to take place in December.
Evictions will also not be allowed to happen up until at least the 11th January 2021, supporting individuals and families who have found themselves in financial difficulty through no fault of their own.
The government have gone on to further announce that the six-month notice periods will stay in place until at least the end of March 2021 – except for the most serious cases.
Bailiffs had already agreed with the government in October that they would not enforce court orders against tenants that were in tier two and three locations. Courts will – however – remain open through the national restrictions to ensure protection for both tenants and landlords.
This will include the strict prioritisation of cases, such as those involving anti-social behaviour and other crimes.
These protections are on-top of the unprecedented package the government has already put in place, including support for businesses and strengthening the welfare safety-net.
Jenrick has stated the government are now going further to help protect tenants from evictions during new national restrictions and throughout the Christmas period. The aim is to strike the right balance between helping tenants in need, while ensuring landlords have access to justice in the most urgent cases.
How landlords can help resolve tenant problems
Both landlords and tenants must work together to continue a tenancy during such uncertain times.
After all, the aim of a successful let is to find a tenant who will take care of your property, and for a tenant to find a good quality place to call home.
Talking to your landlord about your financial situation may seem daunting, which is why we're here to mediate those conversations, where able.
It should also be noted that landlords can be a source of information for tenants, helping them to access support they may not be able to reach themselves.
If you are a tenant or landlord and have any further questions or want more advice, please contact our team today.
