Renters across Newcastle North will be saved from forking out thousands of pounds in rent upfront thanks to new plans introduced by the Labour government this week.
Currently, there is no limit to how many months rent landlords can require tenants to pay upfront to secure a property. This loophole – coupled with high demand for rental properties – has resulted in some landlords forcing tenants to pay extortionate sums of money upfront, in the form of several months’ rent, before securing a tenancy.
Under new measures introduced as part of Labour’s Renters’ Rights Bill, the amount of rent landlords can demand in advance will be limited to a maximum of one month’s rent.
The bill will also abolish no fault evictions, apply Awaab’s Law to the sector and ensure landlords do not unreasonably withhold consent when a tenant requests to have a pet in their home.
Labour’s actions stand in stark contrast to the previous Conservative government who shelved plans to boost renters’ rights, leaving households exposed to spiralling costs and poor housing.
Third Reading of the Bill passed the House of Commons this week and it will now go to the House of Lords for further debate.
Catherine McKinnell MP commented:
“I was proud to vote for Third Reading of the Renters’ Rights Bill this week – the most significant package of reforms to the private rented sector in over 40 years, providing greater security and stability to those renting in Newcastle North.”
“I am pleased that the Labour Government has added further measures to the bill to stop students feeling pressured into signing early tenancy agreements – which I know is a particular worry for the hundreds of students who live in this constituency.”
“This bill is an important part of our Plan for Change, increasing living standards and ensuring that everyone in Newcastle North has access to a safe and secure home.”
Angela Rayner MP, Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government said:
“Labour will put an end to renters being charged eye-watering up-front costs when they take on a new tenancy.
“Whilst the Tories completely failed to deliver on their promises to renters and bowed to vested interests on their benches, Labour’s Renters’ Rights Bill will transform the rights of renters, ending rental bidding wars and ‘no fault evictions’ for good.
“Labour is getting on with our Plan for Change, increasing living standards across the country and putting more money in working people’s pockets.”