The Renters (Reform) Bill didn’t make it through the legislative process in time, meaning it has been effectively rejected and will not become law.
This was due to Rishi Sunak’s surprise call for a general election on 22nd May, which left no time for the bill to be passed before parliament was dissolved shortly after.
However, the Labour Party has now introduced a new bill called the Renters’ Rights Bill. It aims to address similar issues, including abolishing Section 21, which allows landlords to evict tenants without needing to provide a reason.
Before the Renters (Reform) Bill was eventually scrapped, it went through several stages in the legislative process.
More than a million properties have been let on OpenRent – why not yours too? Get Started Now
- 17 May 2023
First Reading
The Renters (Reform) Bill was introduced in the House of Commons. During this stage, the bill’s title and main objectives were presented, but there was no debate.
- 23 October 2023
Second Reading
Members of Parliament (MPs) in the House of Commons debated the general principles and objectives of the Renters (Reform) Bill. A motion was held at the end of the debate to determine whether the bill should proceed to the next stage.
- 28 November 2023
Committee Stage
The Committee Stage kicked off on November 14 featuring verbal testimonies from key figures in the private rented sector, including the National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA), housing charity Shelter, and legal experts, among others.
Following this, the Committee initiated a thorough review of both the original text and proposed amendments brought forth by the government and opposition parties. This stage concluded on November 28, with the revised Bill formally introduced to the House of Commons. - 24 April 2024
Report Stage & Third Reading
During the Report Stage, MPs approved a substantial number of amendments and new clauses to the Renters Reform Bill. Following this, the Third Reading debate quickly followed and successfully passed through the House of Commons.
- 1 May 2024
House of Lords
As the Renters (Reform) Bill passed all stages in the House of Commons, it’s then sent to the House of Lords for consideration. The bill goes through similar stages in the House of Lords: first reading, second reading, committee stage, report stage, and third reading.
- 22nd May 2024
Rishi Sunak announces general election
On 22nd May, PM Rishi Sunak called a snap General Election to take place on 4th July 2024. The Bill didn’t make it into the parliament’s ‘wash-up’ period and was consequently scrapped.
These uncertainties highlight the need to stay on top of the legislative process and keep up with the latest updates.
Being informed and adaptable in this ever-changing landscape is crucial for everyone involved, whether you’re a landlord or a tenant.
