Wales: Shadow Housing Minister backs NRLA notice period call
The Shadow Housing Minister in Wales Mark Isherwood MS has called on the Welsh Government to rethink its decision to extend the possession notice period to six months, backing calls from the NRLA.
On Tuesday the NRLA sent an open letter to the Welsh Government, urging for the decision to extend the notice period to be reconsidered.
Commenting today on the NRLA’s open letter, Mark Isherwood MS said a balance needs to be struck between the rights of tenants in privately-rented accommodation, and the rights of landlords and owners of the properties.
He said: “Landlords – as well as tenants – have needs, and their voices and views must be heard to ensure the implementation of policy that is fair for all”.
Mr Isherwood also warned that there could be “serious repercussions for the sector” if the hardest hit landlords remove their properties from the rental market as a result of the decision.
Hasty decision
The decision to extend possession notice periods does not include possession claims which cite anti-social behaviour, and was made under the Coronavirus Act 2020’s emergency powers. It was announced on Thursday 23 July, just hours before coming into force.
Referring to the short amount of time before the legislation came into force, Mr Isherwood said:
“There appears to be a lack of consultation with stakeholders, as well a failure to investigate the possible effects of the move, a view echoed by the Legislation, Justice, and Constitution Committee in the Welsh Parliament.”
A new report published by the Senedd’s Legislation, Justice, and Constitution Committee on 3rd August reflected the NRLA’s concern that the new six-month notice settlement has been brought in too hastily, especially since the Government has until October before the pre-existing three-month temporary notice extension expires.
The NRLA is calling for the Welsh Government to reconsider its decision, and to also develop a financial package to support landlords and tenants by offering interest free loans to allow tenants to cover their rent.
- To read the open letter the NRLA sent to the Welsh Housing Minister this week, click here
- To share your story about how this decision will affect you as a landlord, and write to your own Member of the Senedd, click here
