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The UK’s rental market is poised for significant changes as the Renters (Reform) Bill progresses through Parliament. This landmark legislation aims to rebalance the relationship between landlords and tenants, offering greater protections for renters while addressing concerns about property standards and fairness.
For Folkestone’s landlords and tenants, understanding this bill is critical. Here’s what you need to know.
What is the Renters Rights Bill?
The Renters Rights Bill, first proposed in 2022 (previously Renter Reform Bill), is part of the previous government’s commitment to create a fairer private rental sector. Key proposals include:
1. Abolishing Section 21 “No-Fault” Evictions:
Landlords will no longer be able to evict tenants without a valid reason, ending the controversial Section 21 process. Evictions will require grounds under a reformed Section 8 system (e.g., rent arrears, property damage, or landlord needing to sell).
2. Introducing a Decent Homes Standard for Rentals:
All privately rented homes must meet minimum safety and quality standards, including repairs, heating, and damp prevention. This aligns rental properties with social housing requirements.
3. Creating a Privately Rented Property Portal:
A new digital platform will help tenants check a landlord’s compliance with legal obligations, while landlords can access resources to meet standards.
4. Strengthening Tenant Rights to Challenge Rent Increases:
Tenants can dispute above-market rent hikes through an independent tribunal.
5. Protecting Tenants with Pets and Families:
Landlords must consider requests for pets and cannot unreasonably refuse them. Blanket bans on families with children or benefit claimants will also be prohibited.
Why This Matters for Folkestone?
Folkestone’s rental market has seen rising demand in recent years, driven by its coastal appeal, proximity to London, and regeneration projects like the Creative Quarter. However, affordability and quality remain concerns.
The bill aims to:
Improve living conditions for tenants in older properties, particularly Victorian-era homes common in Folkestone.
Reduce displacement risks by curbing unfair evictions, helping stabilize communities.
Encourage responsible landlords to invest in property upgrades, boosting the town’s housing stock.
Local stats from Folkestone & Hythe District Council show that 28% of private rentals have Category 1 hazards (e.g., damp, fire risks). The Decent Homes Standard could address this.
Key Concerns for Landlords
While tenant protections are central to the bill, landlords have raised questions:
- Costs of compliance: Upgrading older properties to meet standards may require significant investment.
- Eviction delay*: Reforming Section 8 could lengthen the process for legitimate evictions (e.g., anti-social behaviour).
- Rent controls: Though not yet proposed, some fear future caps could deter investment.
Propertymark has urged clarity on timelines and financial support.
What Should Folkestone Landlords and Tenants Do Now?
Landlords:
Audit properties for compliance with the Decent Homes Standard.
Review tenancy agreements and eviction processes ahead of Section 21 abolition.
Contact Match Estates for tailored advice on preparing your property portfolio.
Tenants:
Familiarise yourself with the bill’s timeline via Shelter Guide
Report substandard conditions to the council’s Environmental Health team.
The Road Ahead
The bill is expected to become law in 2025, but debates continue over specifics like court reform and pet policies. For now, staying informed is key.
Track the bill’s progress: UK Parliament - Renters (Reform) Bill
For local expertise, reach out to Match Estates, Folkestone’s trusted partner in property management and lettings.
Final Thoughts
The Renters Rights Bill represents the biggest shake-up of UK renting in decades. For Folkestone, it’s an opportunity to ensure fairer, safer homes while maintaining a thriving rental market. Whether you’re a landlord navigating compliance or a tenant seeking clarity, Match Estates is here to help.
Have questions about the Renters Reform Bill? Call Match Estates today at 01303 475085 for expert guidance tailored to Folkestone’s rental market. Let us help you stay ahead of the curve.
Sources:
Source: Gov.uk - Ending Section 21 Evictions
Source: Decent Homes Standard Guidance
Source: Folkestone & Hythe District Council - Housing Standards
Source: Shelter Guide
Source: Renters (Reform) Bill
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