What does the Renters' Reform Bill mean for supported housing?

The government has published new proposals on reform of tenure, including the abolition of section 21 ‘no fault’ repossession of property. 

The NHF worked alongside members to make sure that the government heard the voice of supported housing providers. We are pleased to see in the government responses to ‘A New Deal for Renting’ a commitment to introduce new, limited ground(s) for possession for providers of supported accommodation. These grounds cover clearly defined circumstances that have been identified in discussion with the sector. These will include where:

• The tenancy was intended to be short-term from the outset and that term has come to an end.
• The funding or support element has ended naturally or dropped away unexpectedly, or been reconfigured so it no longer meets the tenant’s safety and wellbeing needs.
• The support is no longer in line with tenant’s needs, which may have increased or decreased, meaning the arrangement is no longer safe or necessary for the resident.
• The tenant is not engaging with the support.
• A shared housing arrangement has undergone significant changes (e.g. tenants moving out) and its closure or reconfiguration is necessary for the feasibility of the scheme.

These grounds will be mandatory, with the exception of when the tenant is not engaging with the support, where there is particular scope for differing views between parties. Government will continue engaging with stakeholders ahead of legislation to refine their proposals, including on how to define who can use the new grounds. The NHF will work with government on this.

Stakeholders from the supported housing sector also raised concerns about the complexity and length of time associated with taking possession through the courts. In response to these concerns, the government have announced that is the notice period for the new ground(s) will be 1 month. The government will work with the courts to see if cases can get to court earlier in the hope of speeding up this process.