Last week, the government took the first steps to introduce new legislation that will strengthen tenants’ rights and protections. 

The Renters’ Rights Bill, will be progressing through Parliament to bring about the biggest overhaul in rented rights legislation in over two decades. This will transform the lives of over 11 million private renters across the country. 

In Sheffield Heeley, this will directly impact private renters that have felt the burden of rent hikes, disrepair and the threat of eviction. 

Figures from the Office of National Statistics (ONS) have outlined that rent prices have risen more in Sheffield in 2023-24 than in the rest of South Yorkshire. 

Louise Haigh MP for Sheffield Heeley, said:

 “I’ve been contacted by residents who have shared with me their horror stories of private landlords who have used and abused Section 21 notices to remove tenants from their properties. They are then increasing the monthly rent by an extortionate amount, making it impossible for tenants to remain in the property. 

“Some landlords are refusing to carry out essential repairs and tenants are living in mouldy and damp conditions.

“The introduction of the Renters’ Rights Bill will be fundamental to giving tenants a voice who would otherwise not feel empowered to challenge their living conditions. And most importantly of all, it will abolish Section 21 no fault evictions, removing the threat of evictions and increasing tenant security and stability.”

The legislation, which is scheduled to have its second reading in Parliament on the 9th October will also extend Awaab’s Law to the private rented sector, for the first time introducing a Decent Homes Standard for privately rented homes.