Covid 19: DAS produces update for those struggling to pay their rent

The eviction ban in England and Wales has now been extended to 31 March 2021 meaning that, save for limited circumstances, landlords are not able to legally enforce an eviction order until this time.  It is estimated that around 300, 000 people could be at risk of losing their homes if they fall behind on their rent.

Simon Roberts, Senior Associate Solicitor, DAS Law, explains your rights if you can’t pay your rent…

I’m struggling to pay my rent and my landlord has threatened to evict me.  What is the current legal position on evictions during the pandemic?

In March 2020, the government introduced legislation to suspend any new evictions from social or privately rented accommodation. This suspension on evictions has now been extended to 31 March 2021 which means that landlords will not be able to legally enforce an eviction order until this date.   

There are some exceptions to this rule and these exceptions may include the following;

• Tenant arrears equivalent to at least 6 months’ rent;
• Antisocial behaviour;
• Nuisance, annoyance, illegal or immoral use of the property;
• Domestic violence;
• Obtaining the tenancy by false statement or;
• Death of an assured tenant

To read the full DAS article CLICK HERE