The ban on evicting residential tenants has been in place for almost a year now. This month, Anna Pettinger looks ahead to when it might end…
As we are heading out of lockdown, can I start the process of evicting my tenant?
On several occasions in the last 12 months, we’ve discussed the worrying effects Covid-19 has had on the rental sector, with many tenants across the UK falling into arrears.
The virus has had a hugely detrimental impact on many households, in terms of jobs and income. As a result, we are seeing increasing numbers of frustrated landlords, who are stuck in difficult situations themselves and are facing great uncertainty about when they can take back possession of their properties.
On February 14, the government announced the latest ban on residential evictions would be extended to the end of this month, again, much to the exasperation of landlords.
Although it offers little compensation, there are exceptions to the ban in the most serious circumstances, such as illegal occupancy, anti-social behaviour, domestic abuse and failure to pay rent for more than nine months, before March 2020. That said, I have a client who obtained a possession order in February last year, following significant rent arrears and we are still awaiting an eviction date, nearly two months after requesting one.
The ban on evictions for commercial tenants has been extended until June 21 and I would not be surprised if the residential sector follows suit. I would expect an announcement on this about a week before the current ban expires, so watch this space.
It is hoped that as the government expects to lift Covid restrictions fully in June, if another extension to the eviction ban is introduced, it will be the last one. I would recommend having this date in mind if you are wanting to regain possession of your property for non-payment of rent.
As long as the current situation remains, we would strongly encourage you to engage in negotiations with your tenant, as much as possible, with a view to agreeing a payment plan for the arrears.
If you are struggling with the mortgage payments on your rental property as a result of your tenant’s failure to pay rent, try and agree a mortgage holiday or speak to your provider about what, if any, assistance they can provide.
To discuss rent arrears and applications for possession, don’t hesitate to email info@tayloremmet.co.uk or call 0114 218 4000
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