From: Anne Frost <Anne.Frost@communities.gov.uk>
Sent: 28 March 2020 09:24
To: undisclosed-recipients:
Subject: Update: Guidance available for landlords and renters reflecting the current coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak
Dear colleagues,
I am conscious that this will be a difficult time for you and the groups you represent and would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your continued support during this national emergency.
You will no doubt have seen the announcements about the measures the Government is taking to support those who rent their homes in either private or social rented housing and who are affected by coronavirus (COVID-19).
As you will know, the Coronavirus Act 2020 came into force on Thursday (26 March). This emergency legislation prevents new eviction proceedings from being commenced for a three-month period. And from yesterday (27 March), the court service will suspend all ongoing housing possession action for 90 days. More detail on the Government support available for tenants and landlords can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/government-support-available-for-landlords-and-renters-reflecting-the-current-coronavirus-covid-19-outbreak.
The Government has today published guidance for landlords and tenants who may be affected by current events to explain:
- Measures relating to notices seeking possession as amended by the Coronavirus Act 2020;
- Court action on possession cases during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak; and
- Property access and health and safety obligations in the context of coronavirus (COVID-19) restrictions.
We have also published guidance to advise local authorities in England how to effectively enforce standards in rented properties (including housing associations), meet their legal duties and support landlords and tenants during the unprecedented challenges posed by the COVID-19 outbreak.
These guidance documents are available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-and-renting-guidance-for-landlords-tenants-and-local-authorities
In line with public health guidance which advises that people stay in their current home unless absolutely necessary, the Government has also recently published advice on home moves during the COVID-19 outbreak. Where possible, home buyers and renters should delay moving to a new house while measures are in place to fight coronavirus. More information on this advice is available at: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/government-advice-on-home-moving-during-the-coronavirus-covid-19-outbreak.
I would urge you and the groups you represent to continue to observe current guidance on coronavirus available at: https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus.
We are keen to understand the issues that you are facing during this period and want to keep this constructive dialogue going, so we look forward to our continued engagement with you.
Thank you for your ongoing support and understanding.
Anne
Anne Frost
Director
Leasehold and Private Rented Sector
Ext 48858
Mobile 07778 303214