Industry News Sally Walmsley 16/11/2020

Government plan rewards rent dodgers

New regulations published today will mean tenants can build almost 18 months of rent arrears without any sanction.

The rules say that until 11th January 2021, possession orders by the courts related to rent arrears can only be enforced where the arrears amount to nine months or more of rent built before 23rd March. Anything built since then would be disregarded.

The NRLA argues that this is a missed opportunity to help those tenants in financial difficulty due to Covid-19. It does nothing to address housing debt accrued since the beginning of the pandemic.

Ben Beadle, NRLA Chief Executive said: “In trying to arrive at a compromise the Government has failed to help those in genuine need whilst rewarding those whose arrears have nothing to do with the pandemic, and in some cases are wilfully not paying their rent.

“This is doing nothing to help those tenants who are trying to do the right thing and seeking to pay off their debts.

“Instead of prolonging the problem with short-term fixes, the Government needs to urgently bring in a financial package to enable tenants to pay off rent arrears.”

More information

  • Will these new regulations affect you? Email us to share your story at [email protected]
  • To add your voice to our campaign for a comprehensive package of financial support for landlords and tenants visit our coronavirus campaign page.
  • To access the NRLA’s comprehensive range of coronavirus guides outlining everything landlords should be aware of in relation to property management, financial support and minimising the risk to health click here.