Coronavirus update: Can landlords still evict tenants?

Coodes Solicitors Personal Disputes team outlines emergency legislation designed to protect tenants during the COVID-19 crisis.

The Government has announced emergency legislation to prevent private and social renters being evicted from their homes during the coronavirus pandemic.

What does it mean for tenants?

Under the new legislation, all new evictions will be suspended and no new possession proceedings will be permitted during the period of national emergency. The purpose of the legislation is to protect tenants, primarily if they fall into rental arrears.

At this stage, it is unclear whether the legislation only covers evictions due to rental arrears, or whether all new evictions for any ground will be halted.

How will landlords be protected?

To protect landlords, the Government has confirmed that the recently announced three-month mortgage repayment holiday will be extended to buy-to-Let mortgages.

At the end of the period of national emergency, landlords and tenants will be expected to work together to establish an affordable repayment plan, taking into account tenants’ individual circumstances.

What is I am already involved in eviction proceedings?

The impact on existing possession proceedings and unexpired notices requiring possession remains unclear at this moment in time.

Coodes will review the position regularly and update you as the situation develops. Download the new Independent Premium app.

For more information, contact the Personal Disputes team at Coodes Solicitors on 0800 328 3282 or info@coodes.co.uk