Following yesterday’s second reading of the Renters Reform Bill, CEO of lettings and property management platform SevenLiving, Charlotte Thursfield, has commented:

“This decision may have a huge impact on the Bill moving forward, as banning the use of Section 21 formed a big part of the original pledge, and the government’s promise, to bring more security for renters to the private rented sector.

“It will take a while for any reforms to court procedures to be agreed, let alone take effect, so this decision only worsens uncertainty at a time where landlords already lack confidence in the Bill. It’s difficult for landlords to plan ahead and this deepens the risks associated with letting property.

“Ultimately, this is a big step backwards for what essentially aims to give more protections and create a more balanced system for both landlords and tenants.”