Renters' Rights Bill: The next steps
With the Committee Stage already completed the Renters’ Rights Bill is moving through Parliament apace. Mia Rotaru, NRLA Public Affairs Officer looks at what happens next.
The Committee Stage of the Renters’ Rights Bill began on 22 October, with the NRLA among a number of organisations providing evidence on the Bill’s potential impact on the private rented sector (PRS).
Chief Executive Ben Beadle cautioned the Committee about the potentially devastating effect on the supply of rental homes, especially as landlord confidence remains at a record low.
It also warned of the strain the proposed changes could have on the courts, highlighting the importance of reform to ensure landlords can regain possession of their properties, when necessary, in a timely manner.
Following the submission of evidence, the Committee engaged in a line-by-line review of the Renters’ Rights Bill, presenting and discussing amendments from the Government and opposition, with Housing Minister Matthew Pennycook requesting the withdraw of those he believes don't strike the right balance for both tenants and landlords.
Court reform
Court reform was among the issues debated during these sessions, with the NRLA’s evidence highlighting the major impact the abolition of Section 21 will have.
The Government has stressed that, unlike proposals included in the previous administration's Renters (Reform) plans, improving the courts is NOT a precondition for ending Section 21,
Matthew Pennycook confirmed that, while an Impact Assessment for the Bill has been prepared, there is, as yet, no publication date.
The NRLA, for its part, has urged the Government to clearly outline the improvements it expects to make and provide a timeline for change, something it argues would offer much-needed reassurance to the sector. It also says publication of the impact assessment would be beneficial in allowing a more comprehensive debate in the House of Commons at report stage.
What happens next?
The Renters’ Rights Bill Committee concluded its deliberations on 5 November, well ahead of the 28 November deadline. The Bill now moves to the report stage, where MPs will discuss amendments and new clauses. The third reading will follow shortly after, and once completed, the Bill will have completed its passage through the House of Commons.
Dates have yet to be set for the next stages, but, with Matthew Pennycook MP emphasising the Government’s commitment to move quickly, it’s likely the Bill will reach the House of Lords before the winter recess on 17 December.
After the third reading, the Bill will proceed to the House of Lords, where it will make its way through the House, as it did in the Commons.
Should the Lords make any amendments, the Bill will return to the Commons, where both Houses will engage in a "ping-pong" process until they reach an agreement.
Once both Houses approve the final version, the Renters’ Rights Bill will be sent for Royal Assent, before becoming law.
You can keep up to date with all the developments of the Renters Rights Bill, on our exclusive member Hub here.
