A new bill that could potentially make it harder for landlords to evict problem tenants swiftly and efficiently due to current court procedures was introduced into the Welsh National Assembly yesterday. 

The Renting Homes (Amendment) (Wales) Bill was introduced by Julie James AM, Minister for Housing and Local Government, which proposes changes to the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016.

The bill proposes changes to the act before it is introduced in order to provide greater protection for those who ret property in Wales by making it harder for landlords to evict tenants, especially in the private rented sector.

The Business Committee has remitted the bill, which is currently at stage one and will be considered until March, to the Equality, Local Government and Communities Committee.

More details about the bill can be found in its accompanying Explanatory Memorandum. 

David Cox, chief executive, ARLA Propertymark, commented: “Extending notice periods from two months to six months under the Renting Homes (Amendment) (Wales) Bill will cause further shockwaves for landlords and agents. 

“The proposals will make it even more difficult for landlords to reclaim possession of their property and add further longevity to an already lengthy and expensive eviction process.

“We are concerned that landlords will have no viable option of evicting problem tenants quickly and efficiently due to current court procedures. If landlords sell up due to the perceived risk, this will shrink the sector and contribute to landlords being more selective about who they let their property to. 

“The Welsh Assembly must reconsider extending the minimum notice period and take a long-term, holistic view that supports those who are providing professional and well managed tenancies.”