Over recent months, the Government have taken unprecedented action to ensure that renters were protected from eviction at the height of the coronavirus pandemic.
In March, emergency legislation was passed so that landlords were not be able to start proceedings to evict tenants for at least a 3-month period. This was then extended by the Housing Secretary Rob Jenrick with the temporary measures coming to an end on Sunday 27 September.
Warrington South MP Andy Carter has stressed that the Government need to ensure the safety of renters is balanced against landlords’ right to access their property, while continuing to protect public health.
In the House of Commons today (23 September), Mr Carter asked for confirmation that nobody would be forced out of their home immediately whilst additional restrictions are in place across Warrington South.
The Minister confirmed that:
Where there is a local lockdown—where movement restrictions are in place—no evictions will take place.
Andy welcomed this news but added:
This is very good news for many worried about the threat of eviction across Warrington, but critically, landlords will have the protection to progress serious cases of anti-social behaviour.
Whilst we can’t have people forced out of their homes as a consequence of this pandemic, I speak to many landlords across Warrington South who rely on rents as their only source of income. Thankfully, for cases that are causing significant financial damage, whether it be crime or long-term rent mis payments, cases will be able to be dealt with appropriately.
The Government has also provided a great deal of resources for local authorities and charities to support people through this pandemic. The Minister told the House of Commons that he would continue to keep programmes under review and make sure people are supported locally, whether it be through welfare schemes or emergency accommodation.
