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

Found: Q4 John Milne: The Renters’ Rights Bill will come into force later this year.

Found: The Renters’ Rights Bill is also progressing at pace and will abolish Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions

Found: Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State Lords Minister for Housing and Local Government relating to the Renters' Rights Bill

Found: Just in relation to the Renters’ Rights Bill, the digital side of access to justice is through the court

Found: Just in relation to the Renters’ Rights Bill, the digital side of access to justice is through the court

Found: Just in relation to the Renters’ Rights Bill, the digital side of access to justice is through the court

Found: https://doi.org/10.37829/HF-2024-RC01  Shelter (2025) The Renters’ Rights Bill.

Found: thoughts on these points, as well as on recent legislative proposals in this area, including the Renters Rights Bill

Found: thoughts on these points, as well as on recent legislative proposals in this area, including the Renters Rights Bill

Found: thoughts on these points, as well as on recent legislative proposals in this area, including the Renters Rights Bill

Found: broader cost of living crisis, including ending Section 21 evictions through the passage of the Renters’ Rights Bill

Found: Association to the Chair, Justice and Home Affairs Committee regarding Court Reform and the Renters' Rights Bill

Found: We have the Renters’ Rights Bill going through Parliament at the moment.

Found: We have the Renters’ Rights Bill going through Parliament at the moment.

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.

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

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what information her Department holds on the number of private landlords that have issued Section 21 notices to their tenants since 5 July 2024.

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

My Department does not hold data on Section 21 evictions issued by landlords.

However, the English Private Landlord Survey 2024 indicated that Section 21 notices are the most common way landlords evict tenants, and we know that chronic insecurity in the private rented sector has real-life consequences for individuals and families.

The Renters’ Rights Bill will deliver our manifesto commitment to transform the experience of private renting, including the long-delayed abolition of Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions.

The Bill will give renters much greater security and stability so they can stay in their homes for longer, build lives in their communities, and avoid the risk of homelessness.

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

To ask His Majesty's Government what ability landlords will have to comply with tied agricultural dwelling planning conditions when an agricultural employee leaves the industry but chooses to remain in their tied agricultural occupancy property under the provisions of the Renters' Rights Bill.

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

The Renters’ Rights Bill will transform how tenancies work ending the threat of arbitrary section 21 evictions. The new tenancy system will provide tenants with greater security and stability.

We value the contribution made by responsible landlords and believe they must enjoy robust grounds for possession where there is good reason to take their property back. The Bill clarifies and expands grounds for possession, allowing landlords to regain possession when necessary.

A landlord will be able to seek possession of an agricultural dwelling using ground 5A when the duties of the agricultural employee end. This will enable the landlord to re-let the property to a new tenant in compliance with the planning conditions associated with the property.

Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what steps her Department is taking to help incentivise private landlords to rent to benefit recipients.

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

Rental discrimination against people who receive benefits has no place in a fair and modern housing market.

The Renters’ Rights Bill takes direct action to stop discriminatory practices against households receiving benefits in the private rented sector. It will address overt discriminatory practices, such as ‘no DSS’ adverts, and any indirect practices designed to intentionally prevent someone entering into a tenancy.

DWP does not incentivise private landlords to rent their properties to benefit recipients.

We do provide housing support towards rental costs for private renters in receipt of either Housing Benefit or Universal Credit via the Local Housing Allowance.

Discretionary Housing Payments are also available from local authorities to those who face a shortfall in meeting their housing costs.

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 student housing (a) supply and (b) affordability in Leeds North West.

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

The government recognises the high rental costs experienced by many students living in the private rented sector in Leeds North West and across the country.

The Renters’ Rights Bill will take practical steps to empower tenants to challenge unreasonable rent increases, with all rent increases taking place via an existing statutory process. Tenants who receive a rent increase that they feel is not representative of the market value will be able to challenge the increase at the First-tier Tribunal. This will prevent unscrupulous landlords using rent increases as a backdoor means of eviction, while ensuring rents can be increased to reflect market rates.

The Bill will prohibit a landlord or letting agents from inviting, encouraging or any payment of rent before a tenancy has been entered into. In addition, a landlord will only be able to require up to one month's rent in the window between a tenancy agreement being signed and that tenancy beginning. Once the tenancy starts, landlords will be unable to enforce any terms in a tenancy agreement that require rent to be paid in advance of agreed due dates.

The Bill will also prohibit rental bidding practices.

The proposed new ground for possession (Ground 4A) in the Bill is intended to facilitate the maintenance of the annual cycle of student letting for most typical students, namely groups of full-time students living together in Houses in Multiple Occupancy.

Less typical students who may require greater security of tenure, for example postgraduate couples who have put down roots in their area, will be able to enjoy the benefits of the new tenancy system the Bill introduces.

The Renters’ Rights Bill Impact Assessment looked across the package of reforms and received a ‘green’ rating from the Regulatory Policy Committee, meaning it is ‘fit for purpose’.

The government does not expect the Bill to have a destabilising effect on the robust student rental market. 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 recent estimate she has made of the number of small-scale landlords exiting the private rented sector due to incoming regulation and tax changes; and what assessment she has made of the potential impact on (a) housing availability and (b) rent prices.

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

In the most recent release of the English Private Landlord Survey in 2024, 45% of landlords had only one property. This is similar to findings in 2021 (43%) and 2018 (45%).

Whilst 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 government is clear that it values the contribution of professional landlords who understand their responsibilities and comply with regulation, regardless of the size of their portfolios. The Renters’ Rights Bill will make sure good landlords have the confidence and support they need to continue to invest and operate in the sector.

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 document entitled MHCLG: spending over £25,000, March 2025, published on 28 April 2025, if she will publish the full specification of the research commissioned from Verian Group UK Limited on (a) Private Rented Sector - Research work and (b) Leasehold Programme Evaluation Scoping.

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

The Private Rented Sector research carried out by Verian forms part of the Department’s wider monitoring and evaluation work in relation to the Renters’ Rights Bill (further details can be found in its Impact Assessment here). Specifically, my Department commissioned Verian to carry out a longitudinal survey of private renters, to help inform, baseline, and monitor the private rented sector reforms. The findings, which will set out the requirement for the work commissioned, will be published in due course, in line with the our research and analysis evaluation strategy which can be found on gov.uk here.

My Department has also commissioned Verian to conduct an evaluation scoping project to ensure effective monitoring and evaluation of the government’s leasehold and commonhold reforms. Again, we will publish the evaluation findings, which will set out the requirements of the work commissioned for the scoping study, in due course, in line with the above evaluation strategy.

Question to the Ministry of Justice:

To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, pursuant to the Answer of 21 May 2025 to Question 52265 on Repossession Orders: Private Rented Housing, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of the Renters’ Rights Bill on court waiting times for private rented sector repossession claims.

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

As with any piece of legislation, the Government works across Departments to assess the impact. We continue to work closely with the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government to assess and agree the impact of the Renters’ Rights Bill on the justice system. We regularly publish statistics on Court and tribunal waiting times and this will continue as this Bill 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 she has had recent discussions with Cabinet colleagues on the potential merits of introducing rent controls; and if she will make an assessment of the potential impact of doing so on Local Housing Allowance expenditure on private rent.

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

The government has been clear it does not support rent controls and has not discussed their introduction at a local authority level.

We believe that rent controls could make life more difficult for private renters, both in terms of incentivising landlords to increase rents routinely up to a cap where they might otherwise not have done, and in pushing many landlords out of the market, thereby making it even harder for renters to find a home they can afford.

The Renters’ Rights Bill will empower private rented sector tenants to challenge unreasonable within-tenancy rent increases.

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

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether she has had recent discussions with relevant stakeholders on introducing rent controls at a local authority level.

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

The government has been clear it does not support rent controls and has not discussed their introduction at a local authority level.

We believe that rent controls could make life more difficult for private renters, both in terms of incentivising landlords to increase rents routinely up to a cap where they might otherwise not have done, and in pushing many landlords out of the market, thereby making it even harder for renters to find a home they can afford.

The Renters’ Rights Bill will empower private rented sector tenants to challenge unreasonable within-tenancy rent increases.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero pursuant to the Answer of 14 May 2025 to Question 50161 on Private rented housing: tribunals, what assessment his Department has made of the potential impact of the new Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards for private rented accommodation on private rented sector rents.

Answered by Miatta Fahnbulleh - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

Private rented sector minimum energy efficiency standards are part of a wider package of strengthening tenants’ rights. The Renters’ Rights Bill will introduce new protections for tenants to challenge unreasonable rent increases. Landlords will be able to increase rents to market rates once per year, with tenants able to challenge this at the Tribunal if it is unreasonable.

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

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, pursuant to the Answer of 13 January 2025 to Question 21626 on Renters' Rights Bill, for what reason the Impact Assessment to the Planning and Infrastructure Bill was not published in a timely manner.

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

The Department aims to publish Impact Assessments in a timely manner, in line with the ‘Better Regulation Framework’ guidance, which states that an Impact Assessment ‘should be published alongside relevant legislation when it is laid before Parliament.’

In exceptional circumstances this may not be possible, for example, where the legislation is urgent, further work is needed following concerns expressed by the Regulatory Policy Committee (RPC) or where the assessment is with RPC for review. In those circumstances, the Department works with the RPC to ensure the Bill Impact Assessment and RPC opinion is published as soon as possible.

The Impact Assessment for the Planning and Infrastructure Bill was published 6 May 2025 ahead of the Bill’s Commons committee stage.

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

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether she has made an assessment of the potential impact of the proposed Ground 4A in the Renters’ Rights Bill on landlords who rent (a) one and (b) two-bedroom properties to students.

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

The proposed new ground for possession (Ground 4A) in the Renters’ Rights Bill is intended to facilitate the maintenance of the annual cycle of student letting for most typical students, namely groups of full-time students living together in Houses in Multiple Occupancy.

Less typical students who may require greater security of tenure, for example postgraduate couples who have put down roots in their area, will be able to enjoy the benefits of the new tenancy system the Bill introduces.

The Renters’ Rights Bill Impact Assessment looked across the package of reforms and received a ‘green’ rating from the Regulatory Policy Committee, meaning it is ‘fit for purpose’.

Question to the Home Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, if she will make an assessment of the potential impact of (a) section 21 and (b) other provisions within the Renters' Rights Bill on fixed-term asylum accommodation procured by her Department.

Answered by Angela Eagle - Minister of State (Home Office)

The Home Office keeps all aspects of the immigration system under regular review, in consultation with a wide range of experts and stakeholders.

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

To ask His Majesty's Government, further to the remarks by Baroness Taylor of Stevenage on 28 April (HL Deb cols 1007–14), what steps they are taking to ensure that the courts are “ready” to implement the changes proposed in the Renters’ Rights Bill.

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

We continue to work closely with the Ministry of Justice to agree how the Renter’s’ Rights Bill will be implemented so that the justice system has the resources needed to adjust to any changes in caseload.

Work is also progressing on updating Court and Tribunal rules and procedures in readiness for the implementation of the new legislation.

We are committed to digitising the court process to make it more efficient and easier to understand for landlords and tenants.

In the longer term we expect our reforms to reduce the volume of court possession claims, as only those cases where there is a clear, well-evidenced ground for possession will be able to proceed. This will help to offset any increased pressure on the courts resulting from our reforms.

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

To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the impact of the Renters’ Rights Bill on the capacity, resourcing and caseload of the courts and tribunals system.

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

We continue to work closely with the Ministry of Justice to agree how the Renter’s’ Rights Bill will be implemented so that the justice system has the resources needed to adjust to any changes in caseload.

Work is also progressing on updating Court and Tribunal rules and procedures in readiness for the implementation of the new legislation.

We are committed to digitising the court process to make it more efficient and easier to understand for landlords and tenants.

In the longer term we expect our reforms to reduce the volume of court possession claims, as only those cases where there is a clear, well-evidenced ground for possession will be able to proceed. This will help to offset any increased pressure on the courts resulting from our reforms.

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 protect private landlords from repeat non-paying tenants.

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

The Renters’ Rights Bill will introduce new protections for tenants and landlords when rent is not paid. When tenants temporarily fall into rent arrears, we will support both parties by preventing tenancies which are otherwise viable from ending. We will increase the notice period for an arrears eviction to four weeks and increase the threshold for mandatory eviction to three months’ rent arrears.

Landlords will still have access to robust grounds for possession for rent arrears, including the mandatory ground for three months arrears, and discretionary grounds which could be used for cases involving repeat non or late payment of rent that does not meet the mandatory threshold.

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

To ask His Majesty's Government what steps they are taking to ensure that registered providers communicate any new guidance affecting shared owners subletting as a result of the building safety problems arising following the Grenfell Tower fire proactively and in a timely manner.

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

The Government has considered the impact of the Renters’ Rights Bill on affected housing sectors. The Bill contains measures to ensure the shared ownership model can continue to function, by excluding it from the assured tenancy regime to prevent shared owners from losing possession for rent arrears.

Regarding subletting requests, the Government’s guidance is clear. For properties affected by building safety issues, requests from shared owners to sub-let, including up to a market rent, should always be accepted by registered providers of social housing in England. Where required, the shared owner may also need permission from the mortgage lender and/or the building’s freeholder.

We are discussing with stakeholders their concerns about situations where shared owners are unable to sell their property due to building safety issues and are subletting. We will ensure that the implications of the Renters’ Rights Bill for shared owners, who are subletting properties affected by building safety issues, are communicated clearly through guidance.

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

To ask His Majesty's Government whether they have made an assessment of the impact of the Renters’ Rights Bill on shared owners who have become landlords because they are unable to sell their share in their property and sublet at a loss.

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

The Government has considered the impact of the Renters’ Rights Bill on affected housing sectors. The Bill contains measures to ensure the shared ownership model can continue to function, by excluding it from the assured tenancy regime to prevent shared owners from losing possession for rent arrears.

Regarding subletting requests, the Government’s guidance is clear. For properties affected by building safety issues, requests from shared owners to sub-let, including up to a market rent, should always be accepted by registered providers of social housing in England. Where required, the shared owner may also need permission from the mortgage lender and/or the building’s freeholder.

We are discussing with stakeholders their concerns about situations where shared owners are unable to sell their property due to building safety issues and are subletting. We will ensure that the implications of the Renters’ Rights Bill for shared owners, who are subletting properties affected by building safety issues, are communicated clearly through guidance.

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

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether she plans to conduct a post-implementation review of The Assured Shorthold Tenancy Notices and Prescribed Requirements (England) Regulations 2015.

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

The government has considered the wider assured tenancy system in the process of preparing the Renters’ Rights Bill.

The Assured Shorthold Tenancy Notices and Prescribed Requirements (England) Regulations 2015 refer only to assured shorthold tenancies, which will cease to exist after the implementation of the Renters’ Rights Bill.

The regulations will therefore cease to have any effect after implementation of the Bill, so we intend to repeal them by regulation.

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

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether she has made an assessment made of the potential impact of the Renters’ Rights Bills on employment levels in the estate agency sector.

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

My Department published the Renters’ Rights Bill Impact Assessment (IA) on 22 November 2024. It received a ‘Green’ rating from the Regulatory Policy Committee, indicating that it is ‘fit for purpose’.

In the IA, the government estimates there are 22,900 letting agents in England in 2023 and 64% of landlords use their services (sources: ONS and English Private Landlord Survey).

The IA does not assess employment levels in the sector but does monetise the familiarisation costs of understanding and adjusting to new regulations for lettings agents. The IA also monetises the commensurate loss of income for lettings agents and other related business of reduced churn in the private rented sector as a result of more stable tenancies. Landlords will benefit from the equivalent saving in letting agent fees.

There are also benefits that the Department has not been able to monetise, for example letting agents are expected to benefit from the Private Rented Sector Database because they will be able to register on behalf of landlords – generating income from this new service.

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 landlords with fewer than five properties.

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

83% of landlords own fewer than five properties, representing 51% of tenancies. It is essential that our Renters’ Rights Bill provides confidence for good landlords, whether they have small or larger portfolios.

The government values responsible landlords who provide quality homes to their tenants and believes they must enjoy robust grounds for possession where there is good reason to take their property back.

The Department published an Impact Assessment on 22 November 2024. It received a ‘Green’ rating from the Regulatory Policy Committee (RPC), indicating that it is ‘fit for purpose’.

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

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, pursuant to the Answer of 6 May 2025 to Question 47931 on Tenants' Rights, what steps she plans to take to raise awareness among renters in rent-to-rent schemes of their new rights following passage of the Renters' Rights Bill.

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

The government intends to provide tenants and landlords – including those operating within rent-to-rent arrangements – with a full suite of guidance to help them prepare for the commencement of the Renters’ Rights Bill.

We expect our guidance to be sufficiently comprehensive that all landlords affected by the reforms it contains will know what their responsibilities are, and tenants across the sector will feel empowered to hold landlords to account when things go wrong.

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

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether she plans to introduce a transition period for the introduction of the provisions of the Renters’ Rights Bill.

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.

We want to see tenants benefit from these reforms as quickly as possible. We have therefore decided to introduce the new tenancy system for the private rented sector in one stage. Upon the commencement date, the new tenancy system 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, if she will make an assessment of the potential impact of capping rent-in-advance at one month on prospective tenants.

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

Demands for extortionate rent in advance put financial strain on tenants and can exclude certain groups from renting all together.

The Renters’ Rights Bill will prohibit a landlord or letting agents from inviting, encouraging or any payment of rent before a tenancy has been entered into. In addition, a landlord will only be able to require up to one month's rent in the window between a tenancy agreement being signed and that tenancy beginning. Once the tenancy starts, landlords will be unable to enforce any terms in a tenancy agreement that require rent to be paid in advance of agreed due dates.

The effect of these measures will be that tenants can be certain that the financial outlay to secure a tenancy will not exceed the cost of a tenancy deposit and the first month’s rent, and that they will not be required to pay their rent earlier than agreed.

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

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what discussions she has had with the buy-to-let lending sector on implementing the Renters’ Rights Bill.

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

The Department has engaged with a range of organisations, including those representing buy-to-let lenders, to understand their needs in the development of the Renters’ Rights Bill. We will continue to work with the sector 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, if she will make an assessment of the potential impact of the Renters' Rights Bill on traveller pitches.

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

The Renters' Rights Bill is focused on the assured tenancy regime.

Traveller pitches do not fall within the assured tenancy regime and an assessment is unlikely to provide significant new insights into the issues affecting those who occupy traveller pitches.

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

To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the potential impact of abolishing assured fixed-term tenancies through the Renters’ Rights Bill; and whether they have (1) considered the possibility that the availability of long-term rental properties may decrease and (2) that tenants may decide under the new legislation, if enacted, to sign a tenancy agreement then immediately serve notice.

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

The Renters’ Rights Bill will remove fixed term assured tenancies, to strengthen tenants’ rights and provide them with more flexibility.

Good landlords have nothing to fear from the reforms. The sector has doubled in size since the early 2000s and there is no evidence of an exodus since reform has been proposed.

Tenants are unlikely to end tenancies unless they absolutely have to. Moving house is expensive and disruptive. Where tenants do end tenancies, they will be required to provide landlords with two months’ notice, to give time to find new tenants.

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

To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the impact of housing associations offering lifetime tenancies to social housing tenants on the housing market.

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

The majority of housing association tenants are lifetime tenants with assured tenancies, and therefore already enjoy a high security of tenure.

The Renters' Rights Bill will abolish fixed term assured tenancies and assured shorthold tenancies. This change will enhance the security and stability for the minority of tenants with private registered providers who currently lack assured (lifetime) tenancies. Landlords will also benefit from clear and expanded possession grounds to evict tenants in circumstances where that is justified and reasonable.

The government published its Impact Assessment for the Renters’ Rights Bill on 22 November 2024, following scrutiny from the Regulatory Policy Committee. The Impact Assessment received a ‘green’ rating, indicating it is ‘fit for purpose’.

The impact assessment can be found on gov.uk here.

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 renters in rent to rent schemes.

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

Tenants living under rent-to-rent arrangements should have legal protections and the same right to redress as other private renters.

Rent to rent arrangements can be abused to make it more difficult to identify landlords and hold them to account.

The Renters’ Rights Bill addresses this in several ways:

To improve enforcement against criminal rent to rent schemes, we are expanding rent repayment orders to cover superior landlords in rent-to-rent arrangements. This will mean all landlords involved can be held to account by tenants.

We are also extending liability for rent repayment orders to company directors. This will help to ensure that where the rent-to-rent company has committed an offence, the individuals behind it cannot escape liability.

Complex ownership arrangements for rent-to-rent agreements should not impede effective enforcement. We intend to pass secondary legislation which will require the details of others associated with the property, such as the owner or superior landlord, to be recorded on the Private Rented Sector Database.

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 take steps to prevent long leases from becoming assured shorthold tenancies.

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

The Renters’ Rights Bill will abolish assured shorthold tenancies, so most private rented sector tenancies will be assured tenancies in future.

The Bill will also exclude leases over 21 years in length from the assured tenancy regime.

This will mean that long leases cannot be considered assured or assured shorthold tenancies once the Bill’s reforms have been brought into force.

This will close the ‘Tenancy Trap’, a problem for some leasehold-homeowners where their properties can be repossessed via the assured tenancy possession ground for rent arrears.

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 expand tenants rights in relation to eviction notices.

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

The Renters’ Rights Bill delivers our manifesto commitment to transform the experience of private renting, including by ending Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions.

The Bill will improve the current system for both the 11 million private renters and 2.3 million landlords in England.

It will give renters much greater security and stability so they can stay in their homes for longer, build lives in their communities, and avoid the risk of homelessness.

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 housing associations to seek possession of a property when there is substantial evidence of anti-social behaviour.

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

Social landlords already have a range of powers and enforcement tools to tackle anti-social behaviour including powers to evict perpetrators. We expect landlords to use those powers promptly and proportionately, putting the needs of victims at the heart of their response.

The government is strengthening these powers through the Renters’ Rights Bill for private registered providers.

Tackling anti-social behaviour is a top priority for this government, and a key part of our Safer Streets Mission. We will crack down on those making neighbourhoods feel unsafe and unwelcoming by introducing the new Respect Order, which local authorities will be able to apply for and which will carry tough sanctions and penalties for persistent adult offenders. The police, local authorities and social landlords may already apply for a Civil Injunction under Section 1 of the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 to prevent behaviour that is causing housing-related nuisance and annoyance.

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 support (a) local authorities and (b) social housing providers to tackle anti-social behaviour in residential premises.

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

Social landlords already have a range of powers and enforcement tools to tackle anti-social behaviour including powers to evict perpetrators. We expect landlords to use those powers promptly and proportionately, putting the needs of victims at the heart of their response.

The government is strengthening these powers through the Renters’ Rights Bill for private registered providers.

Tackling anti-social behaviour is a top priority for this government, and a key part of our Safer Streets Mission. We will crack down on those making neighbourhoods feel unsafe and unwelcoming by introducing the new Respect Order, which local authorities will be able to apply for and which will carry tough sanctions and penalties for persistent adult offenders. The police, local authorities and social landlords may already apply for a Civil Injunction under Section 1 of the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 to prevent behaviour that is causing housing-related nuisance and annoyance.

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 she has made of the effectiveness of the licensing criteria for Houses in Multiple Occupation.

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

It is important that private rented properties are safe, well-maintained, and properly managed. Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO) licensing schemes play a crucial role in achieving this.

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

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 guidance her Department issues on whether bereaved families are liable for (a) rent and (b) other costs following the death of a Universal Credit claimant during an assessment period.

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

The liability of bereaved families of someone who may have been in receipt of Universal Credit will depend on whether they have entered into any legal agreements as a part of their relative's tenancy.

If individuals are unclear on whether they, or another family member, is liable for outstanding debts, they may wish to seek independent advice from organisations such as Citizens Advice.

The Renters’ Rights Bill will limit the liability of a guarantor of a tenancy agreement for rent in the tragic circumstance where a tenant related to them has died.

Impact of upgrading the energy efficiency of private rented homes

Found: Through an amendment to the Renters’ Rights Bill in the House of Lords, Openreach sought to enable tenants

Found: in the criminal courts, exacerbated by the introduction of further legislation such as the Renters’ Rights Bill

University APPG
Wednesday 11th June 2025

Found: whether she has made an assessment of the potential impact of the proposed Ground 4A in the Renters' Rights Bill

University APPG
Wednesday 11th June 2025

Found: debates, answers, forthcoming business, etc. 2 Contents Parliamentary business 3 Renters’ Rights Bill

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

Found: govuk-table__cell">Shelter

Found: higher Stamp Duty on additional dwellings from 3% to 5% to benefit first-time buyers • Renters' Rights Bill

Found: Our landmark Renters’ Rights Bill was introduced within our first four months.

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

Found: abolishing section 21 no-fault evictions and reforming grounds for possession with the Renters’ Rights Bill

Found: apply a Decent Homes Standard to privately rented homes have been taken forward through 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: Social housing • Affordable Homes Programme • Housing quality • Private rented sector and Renters’ Rights Bill

Found: Energy Bill (original and first supplementary memorandum) 6 February 2025 Consent granted Renters’ Rights Bill

Found: including provisions which currently appear within UK Government legislation, such as within the Renters’ Rights Bill

Found: including provisions which currently appear within UK Government legislation, such as within the Renters’ Rights Bill

Found: Welsh Government’s Supplementary Legislative Consent Memorandum (Memorandum No. 2) on the Renters’ Rights Bill

Found: 1 SUPPLEMENTARY LEGISLATIVE CONSENT MEMORANDUM (MEMORANDUM NO 2) RENTERS’ RIGHTS BILL 1.

Found: The Renters’ Rights Bill (“the Bill”) was introduced in the House of Commons on 11 September 2024.

Found: to consider and report on the Supplementary Legislative Consent Memorandum (No.2) on the Renters’ Rights Bill

Found: The Welsh Government’s Legislative Consent Memorandum on the Renters’ Rights Bill Welsh Government

Found: Constitution Committee to consider and report on the Legislative Consent Memorandum on the Renters’ Rights Bill

Found: The Renters’ Rights Bill (“the Bill”) was introduced in the House of Commons on 11 September 2024.

Found: 1 LEGISLATIVE CONSENT MEMORANDUM RENTERS’ RIGHTS BILL 1) This legislative consent memorandum

Found: Constitution Committee to consider and report on the Legislative Consent Memorandum on the Renters’ Rights Bill

Found: Constitution Committee to consider and report on the Legislative Consent Memorandum on the Renters’ Rights Bill

Found: and Constitution Committee The Welsh Government’s Legislative Consent Memorandum on the Renters’ Rights Bill

Found: This is very similar to the proposal being brought forward by the UK Government in the Renters Rights Bill

Found: We note that the UK Government’s Renters’ Rights Bill, introduced on 11 September 2024, proposes to

Found: and Constitution Committee, The Welsh Government’s Legislative Consent Memorandum on the Renters’ Rights Bill

Found: The Welsh Government’s Supplementary Legislative Consent Memorandum on the Renters’ Rights Bill