Court reform ‘crucial’ if Renters’ Rights Act is to succeed, says Law Society

The Law Society of England and Wales says it welcomes the Renters’ Rights Bill that gained Royal Assent but warns that without significant court reform and modernisation, the bew legislation could struggle to deliver on its aims.

The organisation said delays and inefficiencies in the current court system must be addressed to ensure both landlords and tenants can access fair and timely dispute resolution once the new legislation takes effect, and is now urging the government to invest further in the courts.

The Act aims to improve the private rental sector by abolishing Section 21 evictions and ensuring that both renters and landlords have clear and fair legal rights in case of a dispute.

Law Society president, Mark Evans, said: “We welcome the Renters’ Rights Bill that became law as it helps level the playing field between tenants and landlords.

“We’re pleased that the Law Society’s calls to stop landlords asking for more than one month’s rent upfront have been accepted. This helps make renting fairer and more accessible for prospective tenants, making a real difference to their lives.

“The decision to end ‘no-fault’ evictions addresses a long-standing imbalance that gave landlords an unfair advantage. The Act also introduces new and revised grounds for possession. To ensure fairness for both parties, the government must clarify what kind of evidence landlords will need to provide to invoke those grounds.

“For this Act to be successful, the government must now invest in the courts to ensure they can handle the expected rise in contested hearings. Court reform and modernisation is crucial if the Renters’ Rights Act is to help both tenants and landlords.

“The Renters’ Rights Act is an important step towards a fairer housing system that gives both tenants and landlords the necessary foundation for wellbeing, dignity and stability.”

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