Joanna Elson CBE, Chief Executive at Independent Age said: “We are pleased to see the Renters’ Rights Bill progress to the next stage with the second reading. In its current form, the Bill is a once in a generation opportunity to dramatically improve private renting. Older private renters have been waiting a long time for change, so it is vital that MPs across all parties work together to pass it swiftly and in full.
“From speaking to older private renters on a low income about their situation, we know the current system does not work well for tenants. People tell us about extreme anxiety at the threat of being evicted through no fault of their own by a Section 21 notice, dangerous conditions that are hazardous to health like mould or extremely cold temperatures and cutting back on essentials like food to afford rent.
“By including measures such as outlawing Section 21 evictions, applying a Decent Homes Standard to the private rented sector and measures to prevent unfair rent rises, the Renters’ Rights Bill will be a game-changer for many older tenants. To strengthen the current Bill, we are urging the UK Government to ensure that indirect discrimination against low-income private renters is ended by limiting upfront rent payments to one month.
“Passing it quickly and with these measures included will go a long way in giving renters across the country of all ages some of the protections they desperately need.”