A very quick update for you all, good news as from the 10th of March 2021 the government has extended the Ban on evictions for commercial properties to the 30 June and for private renters the eviction ban extended to 31 May to protect tenants. This is good news for many who were faced with the threat of eviction.
Background
In November, the government suspended eviction action in England. This meant that bailiffs were not allowed to repossess properties over the Christmas period, apart from in cases that included instances of rent arrears of nine months’ or longer, squatters, anti-social behaviour, and domestic violence cases. Last month, the ban was extended from 22 February to 31 March and has now been extended by a further two months until 31 May.
What does this mean for those who are renting privately?
Your landlord cannot commence eviction action until the 31st of May 2021, if your Landlord does commence eviction proceedings, they must give six months’ notice except ‘in the most serious of cases’, e.g., domestic abuse cases or anti-social behaviour.
What help is available for landlords?
Some support is available for landlords and tenants facing financial difficulties due to the ongoing pandemic. Landlords whose tenants are struggling to pay rent can still apply for payment holidays on their mortgages until 31 March, for of up to six months. The government is encouraging tenants who are unable to pay their rent, to speak to their landlords directly to try to reach an agreement.
If you are a tenant and are unable to pay your rent.
landlords are being encouraged to offer support for renters who are struggling. If you’re not currently working, you may be entitled to financial support. Universal Credit and the Housing Allowance and have been increased to cover housing costs. The government has also made £180m available to councils to provide Discretionary Housing Payments to tenants struggling to pay their rent. Check with your council to see if you’re eligible.
What is a Discretionary Housing Payment
This is a payment you may receive at the discretion of your local council, which can help towards your housing costs. You can only get it if you are entitled to Housing Benefit or the Housing Costs element of Universal Credit.
What are the documents normally required to support a claim?
- Your proof of income for both yourself and a partner if you have one.
- Bank account statements covering at least two months.
- Proof of any loan or credit card or hire purchase repayment agreements.
- Any letters you have received from the landlord about rent arrears.
- Income and expenditure
- If you are ill, recent medical evidence.
You can find the contact details of your local council on the Gov.UK website.
Read more useful information:
https://www.which.co.uk/news/2021/03/coronavirus-eviction-ban-extended-what-it-means-for-renters-and-landlords/ - Which?
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/further-support-for-commercial-and-residential-tenants