A New Era for Renters: Key Changes in the Law
The Renters' Rights Bill has officially received Royal Assent, marking a transformative moment for millions of people living in privately rented homes across the United Kingdom. Navendu Mishra, MP for Stockport, has expressed immense pride in this wide-ranging legislation, which is set to strengthen tenant rights, improve housing security, and introduce vital new protections.
What the New Legislation Means for Tenants
Under the new law, several critical changes come into force designed to create a more transparent and equitable rental market. Rent increases are now limited to once per year, providing tenants with greater financial predictability. Furthermore, tenants have been granted the right to challenge what they believe to be unfair rent hikes through an independent tribunal.
In a significant move to curb rising costs, bidding wars have been explicitly banned. Landlords are now prohibited from accepting offers that exceed the initially advertised rent, putting an end to a practice that often priced out many prospective renters.
The End of Section 21 and New Protections
For many years, campaigners like Mr Mishra have fought for the abolition of Section 21 'no fault' evictions. Until now, this rule allowed landlords to evict tenants without providing any reason, creating a climate of insecurity where families were often afraid to raise concerns about their properties.
This Bill directly addresses this issue by replacing Section 21 with a strengthened Section 8 process. Landlords must now use Section 8 grounds for eviction, which require them to provide a legitimate and justified reason. The legislation also introduces additional tenant rights, including the right to request permission to keep pets. To help resolve disputes fairly and efficiently, a new Landlord Ombudsman will be established.
Beyond Housing: MP's Broader Community Work
Alongside his work on the Renters' Rights Bill, Navendu Mishra has been active on other fronts in Westminster. Last month, he hosted two important Parliamentary events. As a regular blood donor since 2016, he welcomed NHS Blood and Transplant staff, fellow MPs, and a Health Minister to discuss the importance of donation.
He also hosted a Macmillan Cancer Support Coffee Morning in the House of Commons, using the opportunity to thank the dedicated staff and volunteers who support people through difficult times. Additionally, he welcomed The Fertility Alliance and the British Fertility Society to brief MPs on infertility, an issue affecting an estimated one in six couples.
Marking Remembrance Sunday, Mr Mishra laid a memorial cross in the House of Commons Constituency Garden of Remembrance on behalf of his Stockport constituents. He also joined hundreds of residents at memorials across the town to honour those from Stockport, Britain, and the Commonwealth who lost their lives in service. He highlighted his recent meeting with the Stockport Armed Forces Community Organisation (SAFCO) and welcomed the Government's new Valour programme, which aims to improve access to essential care for British veterans.
Mr Mishra continues to hold MP advice surgeries across the Stockport constituency, with a recent session held in Davenport alongside local councillors Wendy Wild and Paul Wright. His town centre office remains open on weekdays for constituents wishing to raise issues.
