Renters' Rights Act - a huge step forward for renters and homelessness prevention

The Renters’ Rights Bill has become law this week, ending Section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions across England. This is a landmark moment for housing justice and a vital step in preventing homelessness.

In the past year alone, over 11,400 households in England were evicted under no-fault grounds. These evictions often leave families scrambling for shelter, pushing many into homelessness or unsuitable temporary accommodation. 

By abolishing Section 21, the new law gives renters the security they need to build stable lives and communities- without the constant fear of being uprooted without reason. The new law also abolishes fixed-tenancy agreements and replaces them with rolling contracts so people wanting to stay in their property can do so. It also provides a requirement for the rent to be set at a market rate and caps the amount a landlord can charge as a deposit. 

Lucy Parish, our Director of Operations, commented “I’m absolutely delighted to see the Renters’ Rights Act become law. Ending no-fault evictions is a huge win for housing security, and a vital step in preventing people from becoming homeless”

At Hopestead, we believe that a secure home is the foundation for opportunity, dignity, and thriving communities. This legislation is a powerful tool in our mission to end homelessness in the East of England.