York council trains 200 landlords on Renters’ Rights Act

Cllr Michael Pavlovic said the council is supporting landlords following the Renters’ Rights Act coming into effect this month.

The Renters’ Rights Act signals the end of Section 21 “no fault” evictions, meaning private landlords will not be able to evict tenants without a valid justification.

Landlords must also reasonably consider renters’ requests to live with a pet.

Rather than fixed contracts, tenancies in the private rented sector will also roll on from month to month or week to week, giving renters more flexibility. Tenants can end them with two months’ notice.

There are also fairer rent rules, with landlords only able to raise rents once a year and tenants able to challenge unfair hikes.

Potential bidding wars should be avoided as landlords must stick to no more than the advertised rent price.

Landlords can now only ask for up to one month’s rent upfront and they cannot refuse tenants because they receive benefits or have children.

Full-time students can be evicted at the end of the academic year if the landlord gives them four months’ notice. These new rules do not apply to social tenants or lodgers.

Cllr Pavlovic said 20 per cent of homes (or 17,000 properties) in York are privately rented and in “very high demand as those looking for a rental property will know”.

“This new legislation gives tenants more rights and security – if they honour their contracts.

“We’re also supporting landlords and so far, we have trained 200 to help them understand and act on their new obligations. They in turn must help make their tenants aware of these changes.”

Andy Simpson, chair of York Residential Landlords Association (RLA), said the Renters’ Rights Act represents a “significant change for both tenants and landlords”.

“Landlords will want to see the new system work well, with tenants having clear information about their rights and responsible landlords having clear guidance on what is required of them.

“It is important that landlords receive clear communication well in advance of changes taking effect, so they have the time and certainty needed to prepare properly. These reforms must be implemented in a fair, practical and proportionate way, with good landlords supported to continue providing much-needed homes in York.

“We look forward to continuing to work closely with the Council on the implementation of the Renters’ Rights Act, with the aim of securing positive outcomes for both tenants and landlords.”