'I've sold my flat before the Renters' Rights Bill becomes law'

"Once the bill becomes law, the government will ban Section 21 "no-fault" evictions, give tenants greater rights to challenge rent increases and make it illegal to discriminate against prospective tenants on benefits. Ms Ogunfeibo says "landlords are scared" of some of the changes due to come into effect. The government says the bill will provide tenants with "greater security, rights and protections in their homes"."

"Among some of the changes in the Renters rights bill, the government wants to: Ban Section 21 "no-fault" evictions, where landlords can evict tenants without a reason Allow tenants to challenge unfair rent increases Make it illegal to discriminate against tenants on benefits or with children Stop bidding wars, so tenants do not pay over the advertised price Allow tenants to request pets"

"Ms Ogunfeibo, who has rented out properties since 1986, says by selling the flat she was "able to get out the money" she had put into it. She says she accepts that parts of the law are needed, including a Private Rented Sector Database to help landlords understand their legal obligations and demonstrate compliance. But she is concerned that the bill will ultimately push rents up."

Patricia Ogunfeibo, a 61-year-old landlord, sold a two-bedroom flat in south-east London and one of nine properties ahead of the Renters' Rights Bill. The bill will ban Section 21 no-fault evictions, allow tenants to challenge unfair rent increases, outlaw discrimination against tenants on benefits or with children, curb bidding wars and permit tenants to request pets. The bill includes a Private Rented Sector Database to document landlord compliance. Some landlords fear the reforms could push rents up and are selling property. Renters affected by Section 21 evictions welcomed the increased security and protections.

Read at www.bbc.com