Dramatic U-turn on Section 21

Details have emerged of what appears to be a stay of execution for Section 21 eviction powers in the short term.

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The abolition of Section 21 was arguably the centrepiece of the Renters Reform Bill, which has its Second Reading in the House of Commons today.

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On Friday it emerged that Section 21 would still be be abolished but only when improvements are made to the way courts handle legitimate possession cases.

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Now we know what the government suggests those improvements will consist of - and they appear to be substantial improvements which may take some time to introduce.

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They begin with digitising more of the court process to make it simpler and easier for landlords to use; exploring the prioritisation of certain cases including antisocial behaviour; Improving bailiff recruitment and retention and reducing administrative tasks so bailiffs can prioritise possession enforcement; and Providing early legal advice and better signposting for tenants including to help them find a housing solution that meets their needs.

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The government also says it wants to strengthen mediation and dispute resolution as a way for landlords to settle problems without resort to courts, and to “embed this as a member service of the new Ombudsman” - the latter being something all landlords must join, in addition to professional property agents.

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The government has firmly rejected the call from many experts in the lettings industry for a dedicated housing court, saying its costs would outweigh its benefits. The government insists it would be more effective to channel resources into improving existing court capacity and processes.

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These details come on a response from government to a report from the House of Commons Housing Select Committee.

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