Labour have passed a landmark piece of legislation – the Renters’ Rights Act and Awaab’s Law – which will transform housing standards and tenant protections across the country.
For far too long, renters have had to live with insecurity, unfair treatment, and unsafe conditions. These two new laws are about putting that right, and they will make a real difference to people here in Weston-super-Mare, where almost half of households in Weston Central are rented.
The Renters’ Rights Act, which has now received Royal Assent, abolishes Section 21 “no fault” evictions, giving renters greater security and protection from being unfairly forced out of their homes.
It also introduces a new Private Rented Sector Ombudsman to help resolve disputes quickly, extends the Decent Homes Standard to private rentals for the first time, and makes it illegal for landlords to discriminate against tenants with children or those receiving benefits.
‘I rented until I was 38, and most of my family still do. There are plenty of good landlords out there, this isn’t about them. It’s about the ones who abuse the system and leave people fighting for the basic right to live in safe, warm, and secure homes.’
I know how hard it is to rent and save for a deposit, and that’s why I’m proud to be part of a government that’s finally standing up for renters. If your landlord isn’t doing what they should, get in touch, I want to help.’
Alongside this, the Government has introduced Awaab’s Law, named after two-year-old Awaab Ishak, who tragically died after prolonged exposure to mould in his home.
Under this law, social housing landlords must fix emergency hazards within 24 hours, and tackle damp and mould within five working days. Those who fail to act can now be taken to court or reported to the Housing Ombudsman.
This will save lives. And it’s something we should all be proud of, that no family should ever again have to live in fear of the place they call home.
The Renters’ Rights Act also tackles the smaller but equally frustrating challenges renters face, banning rental bidding wars, ensuring fair rent increases, and giving tenants the right to request pets without unreasonable refusal.
This is about fairness, safety, and respect. No one should live in fear of losing their home just for asking for repairs, and no child should grow up surrounded by damp and mould.
I’ll be pushing the Government for a clear timeline to expand these protections to private landlords too, because every renter deserves the same level of security and dignity.
Labour promised to stand up for renters, and we’re delivering. These new laws represent real change, not slogans or quick fixes, but meaningful action that will make life better for renters here in Weston and across the country.
