The evictions ban in England has been extended for a further six weeks, meaning that evictions will not be enforced by bailiffs until 31 March 2021 at the earliest, with the measures to be kept under review in line with the latest public health advice. Exceptions remain in place for the most "serious cases", including illegal occupation, anti-social behaviour and arrears of at least 6 months rent.
This is a continuation of the government's measures to protect tenants during lockdown, alongside the previously announced six-month notice periods, currently in place until at least 31 March 2021.
The new court rules and procedures that were introduced in September in 2021 will remain in place, with the courts continuing to prioritise the most serious cases, such as those involving anti-social behaviour, illegal occupation, and perpetrators of domestic abuse in the social sector". The government also launched its free mediation pilot in February, "to support landlords and tenants to resolve disputes before a formal court hearing takes place".
"Our measures strike the right balance between protecting tenants and enabling landlords to exercise their right to justice," said Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick MP. "By extending the ban on the enforcement of evictions by bailiffs, in all but the most serious cases, we are ensuring renters remain protected during this difficult time."
