Found: Private Rented Sector Does the Renters’ Rights Bill go far enough to address poor housing conditions

Found: Private rented sector (1) Does the Renters’ Rights Bill go far enough to address poor housing conditions

Found: PRS Q1: The Renters’ Rights Bill 18.

Found: Does the Renters’ Rights Bill go far enough to address poor housing conditions in the private rented

Found: We have campaigned for many of the measures contained in the Renters’ Rights Bill, including the expansion

Found: Does the Renters’ Rights Bill go far enough to address poor housing conditions in the private rented

Found: And our landmark Renters’ Rights Bill which aims to improve standards within the private rented sector

Found: offer solutions for change, with the purpose of shaping the government’s approach to the Renters’ Rights Bill

Found: With the help of Paula Barker MP, we submitted an amendment to the Renters Rights Bill to automatically

Found: Government’s commitment to improving housing standards in the private rented sector through the Renters’ Rights Bill

Found: Private rented sector Does the Renters’ Rights Bill go far enough to address poor housing conditions

Found: required. 1 For more: https://www.eumigrantworker.law.cam.ac.uk/ Private rented sector Does the Renters’ Rights Bill

Found: Does the Renters’ Rights Bill go far enough to address poor housing conditions in the private rented

Found:  Private rented sector o Does the Renters’ Rights Bill go far enough to address poor housing conditions

Found: Private rented sector Does the Renters’ Rights Bill go far enough to address poor housing conditions

Found: Does the Renters’ Rights Bill go far enough to address poor housing conditions in the private rented

Found: Does the Renters’ Rights Bill go far enough to address poor housing conditions? No.

Found: Does the Renters’ Rights Bill go far enough to address poor housing conditions in the private rented

Found: Does the Renters’ Rights Bill go far enough to address poor housing conditions in the private rented

Found: Does the Renters’ Rights Bill go far enough to address poor housing conditions in the private rented

Found: While reforms to the Decent Homes Standard and the proposed Renters’ Rights Bill offer promising steps

Found: Does the Renters’ Rights Bill go far enough to address poor housing conditions in the private rented

Found: Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016”, to inform expectations about how landlords might respond to the Renters’ Rights Bill

Found: CIH supports the measures in the Renters’ Rights Bill (RRB) to give private renters greater consumer

Found: Using data to target enforcement and improvement  The proposed Renters’ Rights Bill database could be

Found: ● We welcome policies proposed through the Renters’ Rights Bill to address these issues.

Found: Landlords have had long enough to get their house in order.14 Private rented sector Does the Renters’ Rights Bill

Found: . ● Strengthened legal powers: We welcome the enhanced legal powers in the Renters' Rights Bill that

Found: sector, particularly those who faces blockages from their landlords- legislation within the renters rights bill

Found: 2.2 Pending clarification on detailed questions, we support many of the provisions in the Renters’ Rights Bill

Found: We are also very pleased to see better security of tenure under the Renters’ Rights Bill, which will

Found: Executive summary  We welcome the Renters’ Rights Bill but are concerned about the large enforcement

Found: Does the Renters’ Rights Bill go far enough to address poor housing conditions in the private rented

Found: to the Decent Homes Standard, its extension to the private rented sector, Awaab’s Law, the Renters’ Rights Bill

Found: funded by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government in the context of the Renters’ Rights Bill

Found: 65 Q85 66 Q46 67 Crime and Policing, Bill 187 of 2024–25 [as brought from the Commons] 68 Renters’ Rights, Bill

Found: findings-on-demographics-and-household-resilience/introduction-and-key-findings 9 https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/renters-rights-bill-impact-assessment

Found: Ending Section 21 no-fault evictions through the Renters’ Rights Bill would help make renting more secure

Found: We have also introduced the Renters’ Rights Bill on private rented accommodation.

Found: housing legal aid will help ensure a sustainable sector as we expand housing rights in the Renters’ Rights Bill

Found: Angela Rayner: Again, on top of that we have the Renters’ Rights Bill, with its protections, and the

Found: housing legal aid will help ensure a sustainable sector as we expand housing rights in the Renters’ Rights Bill

Found: Renters’ Rights Bill While the Renters Rights’ Bill predominantly affects England, we are supportive

Found: Renters Rights Bill Crisis has warmly welcomed the UK Government’s Renters Rights’ Bill which will provide

Found: Renters’ Rights Bill Shelter Cymru would like to congratulate the UK Government on prioritising such

Found: I wanted to follow up on my evidence to outline in further detail the major challenges the Renters’ Rights Bill

Found: Do you think the Renters’ Rights Bill has gone far enough?

Found: Sarah Healey: The Renters’ Rights Bill is also one where we have been observing the impact of similar

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask His Majesty's Government under what circumstances they expect the use of the powers in the Renters' Rights Bill to change the date from which a new rent is payable in rent appeal cases brought before First-tier Tribunal Property Chamber.

Answered by Baroness Taylor of Stevenage - Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

The government is committed to empowering tenants to challenge unreasonable rent increases, to protect tenants from undue financial hardship and prevent rent hikes being used as a form of backdoor eviction once Section 21 notices have been abolished.

We recognise that there is inherent uncertainty as to the volume of rent increase challenges that will be brought when the tenancy reforms in the Renters’ Rights Bill come into force. This is why we have put in place a proportionate safeguard for use in circumstances where it has become clear that the Tribunal system is on course to be overwhelmed.

We intend to use the power if the Tribunal appears at risk of being overwhelmed by a sharp increase in challenges and it has become necessary to avoid lengthy delays for genuine cases to be heard. It will be subject to the affirmative procedure, to allow appropriate parliamentary scrutiny.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of higher levels of regulation in the private rented sector on the number of people who are unable to rent privately and in need of local authority temporary accommodation.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

An Impact Assessment (IA) for the Renters’ Rights Bill was published in November 2024. It can be found on gov.uk here.

The IA makes clear that the reduction in forced evictions could result in a reduced number of households at risk of becoming homeless, with section 21 evictions currently the second leading cause of homelessness. This will in turn reduce the costs to the public purse and wider society of temporary accommodation.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what recent assessment her Department has made of (a) trends in the level of houses in multiple occupation and (b) the potential impact of those trends on local communities.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) can play an important part in the housing market, providing relatively low-cost accommodation for rent.

Local planning authorities already have powers to limit the proliferation of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) through ‘Article 4’ directions.

In addition to the mandatory licensing of large HMOs, local areas can also choose to require smaller HMOs to be licenced to ensure such properties are safe and well managed, and that the character of local communities are protected.

Local authorities have robust powers to ensure landlords of HMOs comply with all relevant regulations. This includes powers to issue civil penalties, prosecute landlords and obtain banning orders.

No recent assessments of the trends in the level of HMOs, or of the potential impacts of these trends on local communities, have been made.

The Renters’ Rights Bill introduces reforms to improve the regulation of private rented sector properties, including HMOs, and drive-up standards within the sector. This includes a Decent Homes Standard and new enforcement powers for local authorities.

My Department will continue to engage with local authorities on a range of local issues, including matters relating to HMOs and we will keep the regulation of HMOs under review.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what steps her Department is taking to help support landlords to ensure their properties comply with the Decent Homes Standard.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

It is imperative that homes are decent, safe and warm. The current Decent Homes Standard (DHS) plays a key role in setting a minimum quality standard that all social homes should meet.

The primary source of funding to support landlords in meeting the DHS and to manage the repair and maintenance of existing social homes is rental income. This amounted to £24.5bn in 2023/24.

From April 2026, social housing rents will be permitted to increase by CPI+1% annually as part of a new 10-year rent settlement announced at the Spending Review. In addition, we completed a focused consultation on how we will implement social rent convergence, ahead of a final decision to be announced at Autumn Budget.

Social housing landlords are required to deliver the outcomes of the regulatory consumer standards, which includes the DHS, set by the independent Regulator of Social Housing (RSH). The RSH proactively seeks assurances that registered providers are meeting the outcomes of the consumer standards through routine inspections of large landlords (those with more than 1,000 homes).

The government is extending the DHS to apply to the private rented sector for the first time through the Renters’ Rights Bill. Alongside its introduction to the private rented sector, the government recently consulted on a modernised DHS for private and social rent homes. The consultation closed on 12 September 2025. My Department is now considering the responses to that consultation, and we will set out our response in due course focused on ensuring that the new DHS is proportionate and deliverable.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether her Department has made an assessment of potential impact of the Renter's Rights Bill on the supply of private rented housing for people from each (a) income group and (b) geographic region.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

The government published an Impact Assessment for the Renters' Rights Bill on 22 November 2024. It received a 'Green' rating from the Regulatory Policy Committee, indicating that it is 'fit for purpose'.

While we acknowledge that it will take time for the sector to adjust to a significant change in regulation, we do not believe that our Renters’ Rights Bill will have a harmful impact on future rental supply.

Although landlords have been aware of successive governments’ plans to reform the private rented sector since 2019, the size of the sector as a whole has remained broadly stable since 2013-14.

The Bill will make sure good landlords have the confidence they need to continue to invest and operate in the sector. We will continue to work with good landlords and their representative associations throughout implementation.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of the Renters’ Rights Bill on levels of private rented housing availability.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

The government published an Impact Assessment for the Renters' Rights Bill on 22 November 2024. It received a 'Green' rating from the Regulatory Policy Committee, indicating that it is 'fit for purpose'.

While we acknowledge that it will take time for the sector to adjust to a significant change in regulation, we do not believe that our Renters’ Rights Bill will have a harmful impact on future rental supply.

Although landlords have been aware of successive governments’ plans to reform the private rented sector since 2019, the size of the sector as a whole has remained broadly stable since 2013-14.

The Bill will make sure good landlords have the confidence they need to continue to invest and operate in the sector. We will continue to work with good landlords and their representative associations throughout implementation.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what steps her Department is taking to help improve the quality of student accommodation.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

The government is improving the quality of student accommodation by overhauling the regulation of the private rented sector through the Renters’ Rights Bill.

The Bill will provide tenants, including students, with greater security and stability and empower them to challenge bad practice. This change will help increase flexibility and prevent students in the private rented sector from being trapped paying rent for substandard properties – assured periodic tenancies will incentivise timely repairs and better standards.

For purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA), only providers signed up to approved government codes will be exempt from the assured system. Quality in private PBSA is safeguarded through government-approved codes of practice, administered by ANUK/UNIPOL, which set rigorous standards for safety, maintenance, and student wellbeing.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask His Majesty's Government, in relation to paragraph 24 of Schedule 1 to the Renters' Rights Bill, whether the protection for tenants from enforcement of rent arrears in respect of delayed universal credit payments apply only in respect of the first universal credit payment; and if so, whether this is consistent with the wording of the Bill which does not state it is limited.

Answered by Baroness Taylor of Stevenage - Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

The Renters’ Rights Bill will introduce new protections for tenants who temporarily fall into rent arrears, supporting both parties by preventing tenancies which are otherwise viable from ending. We will protect tenants from eviction if their arrears are due to the timing of a relevant welfare payment. Tenants will not face mandatory eviction under Ground 8 if they breach the three months arrears threshold because they have not yet received a Universal Credit payment for housing costs which they have been assessed as entitled to.

As Universal Credit is assessed every month, the protection period will apply in any period between the end of an assessment period and the relevant Universal Credit payment, which can usually be up to five days.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what assessment her Department has made of the potential impact of abolishing fixed-term assured tenancies in England on the housing market.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

The government published an Impact Assessment for the Renters' Rights Bill on 22 November 2024. It received a 'Green' rating from the Regulatory Policy Committee, indicating that it is 'fit for purpose'.

My Department has also engaged with a wide range of stakeholders during the development and passage of the Bill, and will continue to do so, as it is implemented.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether her Department has made an assessment of the potential impact of the Renter's Rights Bill on the number of court-adjudicated evictions.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

My Department is working closely with the Ministry of Justice and HM Courts and Tribunal Service to ensure that the county courts are ready for the implementation of the Renters' Rights Bill. This includes an ongoing assessment of any additional burdens on the justice system arising from the Bill.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what estimate he has made of the potential impact of the Renters Rights Bill on the number of renters who will not be able to request a pet.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

The Renters’ Rights Bill will give all private rented sector tenants the right to request a pet, which landlords will not be able to unreasonably refuse.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of the abolition of fixed term tenancies on the security of tenure for rental properties for those who needed to be in an area for a fixed period.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

The Renters’ Rights Bill will ensure that tenants enjoy greater security of tenure. The introduction of a new tenancy system based on periodic tenancies will ensure tenants have the flexibility to stay in a property for as long as they need to. Tenants will need to provide two months’ notice when leaving a tenancy. Landlords will only be able to evict a tenant in reasonable circumstances as set out in this legislation.

Question to the Ministry of Justice:

To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, what steps she has taken to ensure that there is sufficient capacity for tribunals to handle any increased caseload following the Renters' Rights Bill going into force.

Answered by Sarah Sackman - Minister of State (Ministry of Justice)

His Majesty’s Courts and Tribunals Service is undertaking a significant programme of work in preparation for an increased caseload in the tribunal following commencement of the Renters’ Right Bill. This includes streamlining case handling processes and establishing a centralised operational hub; ensuring the availability of suitable estates capacity for hearings; delivering critical improvements to the existing technology systems to increase resilience and support increased workloads; and recruitment of additional administrative staff. Plans are also in train to recruit additional judicial office holders.

The Government has concluded that there is a sound case for an alternative body or mechanism to make initial determinations on rent challenge cases in the future. This would relieve some demand from the tribunals. The Government intends to establish such a body or mechanism, subject to completing a full viability assessment. Further details of this will be confirmed in due course.

Question to the Ministry of Justice:

To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, whether her Department has made an assessment ​of the potential impact of the Renters' Rights Bill on levels of capacity in (a) the civil courts and (b) tribunals.

Answered by Sarah Sackman - Minister of State (Ministry of Justice)

The Ministry of Justice (including its executive agency His Majesty’s Courts and Tribunals Service) is working closely with the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government to assess the potential impact of the Renter’s Rights Bill on the justice system, to ensure that there is sufficient resource in the civil courts and tribunals to respond to demand.

Question to the Ministry of Justice:

To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, what steps she is taking to help tackle the backlog of possession proceedings in court (a) in advance and (b) on implementation of the Renters’ Rights Bill.

Answered by Sarah Sackman - Minister of State (Ministry of Justice)

The most recent published statistics show the median time from claim to order falls within the Civil Procedure Rules stipulation that possession claims should be listed within 4 to 8 weeks. HMCTS is making improvements to bailiff recruitment and retention practices to ensure staffing resources are available to enforce judgments made by the County Courts in those cases where it is subsequently needed.

The Ministry of Justice is working closely with the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government to ensure the justice system is fully prepared for the implementation of the Renters Rights’ Bill.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what steps she is taking to ensure that local authorities have adequate resource capacity to enforce the Renters' Rights Bill.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

I refer the hon. Member to the answer given to Question UIN 32068 on 5 March 2025.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether her Department plans to issue guidance to local authorities on when they should accept that there is a housing duty after the abolition of Section 21 notices.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

Following Royal Assent of the Renters’ Rights Bill, the government will make any necessary amendments to the Homelessness Code of Guidance.

Ahead of these changes, we will engage closely with local authorities and other relevant stakeholders to help them prepare for the Bill’s implementation.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, with reference to the contribution by the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State at the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government of 7 July 2025, Official Report, column 1125, which (a) representatives of the insurance sector and (b) other stakeholders her Department held discussions with prior to the introduction of the amendments.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

The government has engaged with a wide range of stakeholders during the passage of the Renters’ Rights Bill, including the Association of British Insurers and the British Insurance Brokers Association.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what her planned timetable is for the (a) completion of the remaining stages and (b) implementation of the provisions of the Renters Rights Bill.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

The Renters’ Rights Bill is currently progressing through the House of Lords. Report stage concluded on 15 July. Third Reading is scheduled for 21 July and the dates for the remaining stages of the Bill will be announced in due course.

Upon the commencement date, the new tenancy system provided for by the Bill will apply to all private tenancies - existing tenancies will become periodic, and any new tenancies will be governed by the new rules.

We will provide sufficient notice and will work closely with tenants groups and the landlord and lettings sector ahead of implementation.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what steps her Department plans to take to improve the quality of private rented accommodation.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

The Renters’ Rights Bill enables the Decent Homes Standard to be applied to the private rented sector for the first time and provides local authorities with effective and proportionate powers to enforce it.

The Bill will allow ‘Awaab’s Law’ to be applied to the private rented sector. It will enable timeframes to be set out in regulations within which private rented sector landlords and licensors must make homes safe where they contain serious hazards.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask His Majesty's Government what plans they have to rural proof (1) the Planning and Infrastructure Bill, and (2) the Renters' Rights Bill.

Answered by Baroness Taylor of Stevenage - Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

This government is committed to improving the quality of life for people living and working in rural areas.

The reforms in the Planning and Infrastructure Bill will fast-track the delivery of homes and critical infrastructure in all parts of the country, including in rural communities.

The Bill will work in tandem with our wider package of planning reforms to get Britian building again, and the government has committed to giving further consideration as to how we can better support rural affordable housing in national planning policy.

The reforms in the Renters’ Rights Bill will benefit tenants and landlords in rural areas. We recognise that rural areas sometimes have different needs to urban areas and have developed our reforms, accordingly, ensuring landlords have access to robust grounds for possession when necessary. This includes a possession ground to allow properties to be occupied by agricultural workers.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, if she will publish the (a) justice impact test and (b) new burdens assessment her Department has undertaken on the Renters’ Rights Bill.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

Justice Impact Tests are internal government documents which are not usually published by government.

We will set out the funding we are making available to local authorities to meet new burdens arising from the Renters’ Rights Bill in due course.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether her Department has made an assessment of the potential impact of the Renters’ Rights Bill on the ability of charitable landlords to offer flexible housing in areas lacking affordable private rentals.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

The Renters' Rights Bill delivers the government's manifesto commitment to overhaul the regulation of the private rented sector, including by abolishing Section 21 'no fault' evictions.

Upon the commencement date, the new tenancy system provided for by the Bill will apply to all private tenancies - existing tenancies will become periodic, and any new tenancies will be governed by the new rules.

We recognise that regaining possession is sometimes necessary to ensure supply of specialist types of accommodation. The Bill therefore introduces a limited number of possession grounds to ensure there is an adequate supply of properties in vital sectors such as supported accommodation, and for those offering 'stepping stone' accommodation. These grounds may be available to registered charities who provide relevant accommodation.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, if she will make an assessment of the potential merits of introducing (a) tailored exemption and (b) alternative mechanism to the Renter’s Rights Bill for non-profit charitable landlords.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

The Renters' Rights Bill delivers the government's manifesto commitment to overhaul the regulation of the private rented sector, including by abolishing Section 21 'no fault' evictions.

Upon the commencement date, the new tenancy system provided for by the Bill will apply to all private tenancies - existing tenancies will become periodic, and any new tenancies will be governed by the new rules.

We recognise that regaining possession is sometimes necessary to ensure supply of specialist types of accommodation. The Bill therefore introduces a limited number of possession grounds to ensure there is an adequate supply of properties in vital sectors such as supported accommodation, and for those offering 'stepping stone' accommodation. These grounds may be available to registered charities who provide relevant accommodation.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of the Renters' Rights Bill on the (a) popularity and (b) take-up of Build to Rent new build.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

My Department has engaged with a range of organisations, including Build to Rent operators, to understand their interests in the development of the Renters’ Rights Bill.

We do not expect the Bill to have a destabilising effect on the rental market or the Build to Rent sector.

We will continue to work with good landlords and their representative associations to ensure a smooth transition to the new tenancy system.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, how much funding her Department has allocated for the promotional campaign on pet-friendly tenancy rights following the Renters’ Rights Bill.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

The successful implementation of the Renters’ Rights Bill is contingent on landlords, letting agents, and tenants understanding their rights and responsibilities under the new legislation.

Once the Bill has achieved Royal Assent, we intend to deliver a campaign to raise awareness of the changes made by it.

Publicising measures that allow tenants to request a pet will be an integral part of this campaign. It is not possible to break down costs or staffing numbers to indicate spend on specific messages relating to this Bill provision.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, how many civil servants are working on the communications campaign relating to pet-friendly tenancies following the Renters’ Rights Bill.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

The successful implementation of the Renters’ Rights Bill is contingent on landlords, letting agents, and tenants understanding their rights and responsibilities under the new legislation.

Once the Bill has achieved Royal Assent, we intend to deliver a campaign to raise awareness of the changes made by it.

Publicising measures that allow tenants to request a pet will be an integral part of this campaign. It is not possible to break down costs or staffing numbers to indicate spend on specific messages relating to this Bill provision.

Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, whether she plans to take steps to ensure support for low-income tenants provides value for money.

Answered by Stephen Timms - Minister of State (Department for Work and Pensions)

DWP works with Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) to improve housing quality for benefit claimants and value for money for taxpayers.

The Renters' Rights Bill, currently before Parliament, includes measures to strengthen landlord accountability. These include a requirement for all landlords to sign up to the new Private Rented Sector Database; a new independent Landlord Ombudsman which will provide binding resolutions for tenant complaints; the extension of the Decent Homes Standard to the PRS; and Awaab’s law, requiring swift action where damp and mould has been reported.

In addition, DWP is currently testing how sharing UC data can support local authorities with the Rent Repayment Order (RRO) process, aiming to change landlord behaviours and achieve better quality homes where housing support has been in payment.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what accountability mechanisms exist for private landlords who receive public funds through (a) Housing Benefit and (b) Universal Credit.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

Local authorities have a wide range of enforcement tools to take action against private landlords who fail to comply with regulations, including those who receive public funds through Housing Benefit and Universal Credit. They can, for example, issue improvement notices and civil penalties, prosecute landlords, and apply to have landlords banned from letting properties for serious offences.

The Renters' Rights Bill, currently before Parliament, includes a range of measures designed to strengthen landlord accountability. These include a requirement for all landlords to sign up to the new Private Rented Sector Database; a new independent Landlord Ombudsman which will provide binding resolutions for tenant complaints; the extension of the Decent Homes Standard to the private rented sector; and the application of Awaab’s law to the private rented sector.

The Bill also strengthens rent repayment orders, including doubling the maximum amount that a landlord can be ordered to pay from 12 to 24 months’ rent. Where a landlord commits certain offences and rent has been paid through Housing Benefit or Universal Credit, local authorities can claim back rent through a rent repayment order.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, with reference to the oral contribution from the Leader of the House in response to a question from the Rt hon. Member for Hertsmere on 5 June 2025, Official Report, col 462, how the Renters' Rights Bill will increase the power of local authorities to limit houses in multiple occupancy.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) can play an important part in the housing market, providing relatively low-cost accommodation for rent.

Local planning authorities already have powers to limit the proliferation of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) through ‘Article 4’ directions.

In addition to the manatory licensing of large HMOs, local areas can also choose to require smaller HMOs to be licenced to ensure such properties are safe and well managed, and that the character of local communities are protected.

Local authorities have robust powers to ensure landlords of HMOs comply with all relevant regulations. This includes powers to issue civil penalties, prosecute landlords and obtain banning orders.

No recent assessments of the potential impacts of increases in demand for HMOs, or of the potential impacts of such increases on specific local communities, have been made.

The Renters’ Rights Bill introduces reforms to improve the regulation of private rented sector properties, including HMOs, and drive-up standards within the sector. This includes a Decent Homes Standard and new enforcement powers for local authorities.

My Department will continue to engage with local authorities on a range of local issues, including matters relating to HMOs and we will keep the regulation of HMOs under review.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what recent discussions her Department has had with Hertsmere Borough Council on houses in multiple occupation.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) can play an important part in the housing market, providing relatively low-cost accommodation for rent.

Local planning authorities already have powers to limit the proliferation of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) through ‘Article 4’ directions.

In addition to the manatory licensing of large HMOs, local areas can also choose to require smaller HMOs to be licenced to ensure such properties are safe and well managed, and that the character of local communities are protected.

Local authorities have robust powers to ensure landlords of HMOs comply with all relevant regulations. This includes powers to issue civil penalties, prosecute landlords and obtain banning orders.

No recent assessments of the potential impacts of increases in demand for HMOs, or of the potential impacts of such increases on specific local communities, have been made.

The Renters’ Rights Bill introduces reforms to improve the regulation of private rented sector properties, including HMOs, and drive-up standards within the sector. This includes a Decent Homes Standard and new enforcement powers for local authorities.

My Department will continue to engage with local authorities on a range of local issues, including matters relating to HMOs and we will keep the regulation of HMOs under review.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether her Department has made an assessment of the potential impact of Houses in Multiple Occupation on local communities.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) can play an important part in the housing market, providing relatively low-cost accommodation for rent.

Local planning authorities already have powers to limit the proliferation of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) through ‘Article 4’ directions.

In addition to the manatory licensing of large HMOs, local areas can also choose to require smaller HMOs to be licenced to ensure such properties are safe and well managed, and that the character of local communities are protected.

Local authorities have robust powers to ensure landlords of HMOs comply with all relevant regulations. This includes powers to issue civil penalties, prosecute landlords and obtain banning orders.

No recent assessments of the potential impacts of increases in demand for HMOs, or of the potential impacts of such increases on specific local communities, have been made.

The Renters’ Rights Bill introduces reforms to improve the regulation of private rented sector properties, including HMOs, and drive-up standards within the sector. This includes a Decent Homes Standard and new enforcement powers for local authorities.

My Department will continue to engage with local authorities on a range of local issues, including matters relating to HMOs and we will keep the regulation of HMOs under review.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of increases in demand for houses in multiple occupation accommodation on (a) England and (b) Hertsmere.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) can play an important part in the housing market, providing relatively low-cost accommodation for rent.

Local planning authorities already have powers to limit the proliferation of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) through ‘Article 4’ directions.

In addition to the manatory licensing of large HMOs, local areas can also choose to require smaller HMOs to be licenced to ensure such properties are safe and well managed, and that the character of local communities are protected.

Local authorities have robust powers to ensure landlords of HMOs comply with all relevant regulations. This includes powers to issue civil penalties, prosecute landlords and obtain banning orders.

No recent assessments of the potential impacts of increases in demand for HMOs, or of the potential impacts of such increases on specific local communities, have been made.

The Renters’ Rights Bill introduces reforms to improve the regulation of private rented sector properties, including HMOs, and drive-up standards within the sector. This includes a Decent Homes Standard and new enforcement powers for local authorities.

My Department will continue to engage with local authorities on a range of local issues, including matters relating to HMOs and we will keep the regulation of HMOs under review.

Found: Renters' Rights Bill 2024-25: Consideration of Lords amendments

The proposed Renters Rights Bill should be enforced on all rented properties including Council owned & Housing Association properties.
The proposed Renters rights bill for private landlords to increase EPC ratings form E to C whilst Council owed & HA properties are exempt - this is discrimination

Found: The proposed Renters Rights Bill should be enforced on all rented properties including Council owned

Found: Abolishing ‘no fault’ evictions through the landmark Renters’ Rights Bill.

Found: of amenities to support thriving, new communities� 127� The reforms introduced through the Renters’ Rights Bill

Found: Health

Found: And the Renters’ Rights Bill – the most transformative private rented sector legislation in a generation

Found: And the Renters’ Rights Bill – the most transformative private rented sector legislation in a generation

Found: And the Renters’ Rights Bill – the most transformative private rented sector legislation in a generation

Found: govuk-table__cell">Shelter

Found: The Renters’ Rights Bill will enable tenants to challenge above market rent increases in the First-tier

Found: Our Renters’ Rights Bill will finally ban the oppressive rule of no-fault evictions and will reset the

Found: Product Regulation and Metrology Bill • Public Authorities (Fraud, Error and Recovery) Bill • Renters’ Rights Bill

Found: • The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill and the Renters’ Rights Bill, introduced.

Found: apply a Decent Homes Standard to privately rented homes have been taken forward through the Renters’ Rights Bill

Found: first, with specific references to the importance of implementing fee increases alongside the Renters’ Rights Bill

Found: bring this policy in line with the increase to the maximum fine under the 2004 Act through the Renters’ Rights Bill

Found: Report (Session 6) 4Legislative Consent Memorandum Legislative Consent Memorandum (LCM) for the Renters’ Rights Bill

Found: A breakdown is provided below: LCMs • Renters Rights Bill • Product Regulation and Metrology Bill • Tobacco

Found: Protecting the Powers of the Scottish Parliament Followed by Legislative Consent Motion: Renters’ Rights Bill

Found: Railway Services (Public Ownership) Bill Consent recommended 31 October 2024 Consent granted Renters' Rights Bill

Question

When will the Welsh Government respond in writing to the Local Government and Housing Committee’s reports on the LCM and SLCM for the Renters’ Rights Bill?

Answered by Cabinet Secretary for Housing and Local Government

The Local Government and Housing Committee did not request responses to the two reports. The content of both reports was however considered as part of the overall legislative consent process.

The recommendation relating to pets has been addressed in our proposed approach to people renting with pets outlined in the Summary of Responses to the White Paper on securing a path towards Adequate Housing, including Fair Rents and Affordability.

Question

What is the Cabinet Secretary's latest assessment of the possible impact of the UK Government's Renters' Rights Bill on governance and individual rights in Wales?

Answered by Cabinet Secretary for Housing and Local Government

The few provisions in the Bill which directly affect Wales remain those to which the Senedd agreed to give legislative consent on 20 May 2025.

The anti-discrimination provisions will greatly enhance the rights of all tenants in receipt of benefits and those with children.