Agent anger about latest extension of six month notic...

ARLA Propertymark says its disappointed over the latest extension to an eviction ban and the requirement for six months notice to tenants.

The latest extension has been announce ed in Wales, where both the eviction and notice period measures have been lengthened from March 31 until the end of June.

Welsh housing minister Julie James says: “The Welsh Government recognises that extending these temporary protections for a further period of time may cause difficulties for some landlords in the private rented sector ... However, our overriding priority must be the protection of public health at this time.”

ARLA Propertymark’s response comes from strategic development manager Daryl McIntosh.

He says: “Continuing the ban without any support to landlords, many of whom have suffered from financial difficulties throughout the pandemic, does not provide confidence to the sector particularly when the Tenancy Saver Loan Scheme, aimed at providing financial support for tenants has had very little uptake.

“Propertymark would encourage the Welsh Government to consider the effects the pandemic has had on all of those involved in the sector and look to provide fair and equitable support as we navigate away from the pandemic.”

There’s been a stronger reaction from Ben Beadle, chief executive of the National Residential Landlords Association, who accuses the Welsh Government of failing to listen to the best-informed voices.

He comments: “The further extension to the repossessions ban will do nothing to help landlords and tenants financially hit due to the pandemic. We are disappointed that exemptions regarding significant rent arrears have not been included.

“Throughout the pandemic there has been no direct support for landlords in financial distress, and the tenancy saver loans scheme for tenants have had limited uptake due to over-restrictive access criteria, inconsistent local variations and an unnecessary interest charge.

“It seems like the Welsh Government are unwilling to listen to the voices of those most affected.

“Without changes made, more tenants face losing their homes, and many will carry damaged credit scores, making it more difficult to rent in the future and causing huge pressure on local authorities when they can least manage it.”