On Saturday 29th August 2020, regulations outlining how six month notice periods will work in England came into force.

This followed on from the announcement made by Robert Jenrick, Secretary of State last week with the intention to extend the Coronavirus Act 2020 through to the 31st March 2021.

The government’s intention with these new regulations, is to support tenants in need as we enter into colder months, with sweeping announcements on redundancies, whilst also formulating a response to calls for justice from letting agents and landlords who are having to deal with rent arrears built up pre-Covid as well as anti-social behaviour.

What does it mean for landlords?

As from the 29th August 2020, landlords or letting agents who need to issue section notices as a result of tenants incurring rent arrears or misleading information must allow 6 months before gaining possession.

However, this reduces to just 4 weeks if the rent arrears exceed 6 months rental payments.

What about section notices issued for other reasons, other than rent arrears?

For different reasons, there are different periods of notice.

Domestic Abuse

In cases of domestic abuse or riot, two weeks’ notice is sufficient

Antisocial behaviour

Four weeks notice is sufficient for landlords looking to seek possession due to antisocial behaviour.

Failed follow up Right to Rent checks

12 weeks notice is required where tenants need to vacate their property as a result of failed Right to Rent checks.