Balancing Act: UK Government Supports Landlords in Tackling Anti-Social Behaviour

Intro

In a recent article published by The Guardian newspaper (see bit.ly/42ssxCm), a spotlight has been cast on the UK government’s efforts to support landlords facing anti-social behaviour from their tenants. This move aims to strike a delicate balance between protecting the rights of tenants and ensuring that landlords have the necessary tools to address disruptive behaviour with their property assets.  Below is a summary of this significant development and its implications for landlords across England and Wales. 

Supporting Landlords in Addressing Anti-Social Behaviour 

The UK government has recognized the challenges faced by landlords dealing with tenants engaging in anti-social behaviour. By extending its support, the government aims to create a safer environment for all residents, foster harmonious communities, and protect the rights of law-abiding tenants.  This has to be a good thing – particularly as the housing crisis continues and rents are increasing. 

Eviction as a Last Resort 

Even with our heritage as Sheriffs and therefore enforcers of court orders to evict tenants, we understand that this is an action of last resort by the vast majority of landlords – perhaps more now than ever.   

One of the key aspects emphasized by the government is that eviction should be viewed this “last resort” remedy when all other avenues for resolving issues have been exhausted.  We understand that the eviction process can be a lengthy and stressful experience for both landlords and tenants, and therefore, it is crucial to explore alternative means of addressing anti-social behaviour before resorting to eviction. 

Guidance and Advice for Landlords 

To assist landlords in navigating this complex issue, the government is actively providing guidance and advice. This support encompasses the provision of comprehensive resources, including information on local authorities, tenant support services, and mediation services. By equipping landlords with the necessary knowledge and tools, the government aims to empower them to handle anti-social behaviour more effectively.  Whilst this is to be applauded, we are still speaking to many landlords who do not have access to good straightforward legal advice when it comes to serving Notices, issuing claims for possession, and being given the option to seek permission to transfer orders for possession to the High Court for enforcement to give them a more streamlined route out of a difficult tenancy arrangement.  Whilst the perception may be that landlords want to bring tenancies to an end; we can say our experience is the opposite.  Landlords we connect with want to keep their tenants for as long as possible where they follow the terms of their rental agreement.  It is rare to find a landlord who needs to evict a tenant for true anti-social behaviour.  

Collaboration with Local Authorities 

Recognizing the vital role played by local authorities, the government has been working closely with them to tackle anti-social behaviour effectively. This collaboration allows for a coordinated approach, enabling landlords and authorities to share information, address concerns, and devise appropriate interventions. By fostering this partnership, the government aims to create a cohesive response that safeguards the interests of both landlords and tenants.  But despite the good intentions of central Government, we still feel that the support given to local government is too late in the eviction cycle – and needs to be dealt with in a more planned and professional environment. 

Protecting Tenants’ Rights 

While supporting landlords in dealing with anti-social behaviour, the government is also mindful of protecting the rights of tenants. The eviction process must be conducted fairly and in compliance with existing regulations to ensure that vulnerable tenants are not unfairly targeted or displaced. Upholding tenants’ rights and ensuring due process remains a crucial component of this initiative and one we wholeheartedly support.  We do see cases of people being evicted in very difficult situations, which are not their fault, and these are the very people that the State should protect if the spectre of eviction becomes a reality.  

Addressing the Root Causes: 

Beyond providing support to landlords, the government acknowledges the significance of addressing the underlying causes of anti-social behaviour. By investing in initiatives that tackle social issues, such as affordable housing, mental health support, and community engagement programs, the government aims to create an environment where anti-social behaviour is less prevalent. A holistic approach that addresses the root causes can help foster stronger communities and reduce instances of disruptive behaviour.   

On this we say it’s a great idea and we guess you have to start somewhere – which is in recognizing the underlying factors that create anti-social behaviour.  But it’s a long haul to create affordable housing, and to get people into a good place with their mental health.  Information about the eviction process and how to avoid it is an idea that we think should be shared with communities across the country so there are no grey areas for tenants, landlords and advisors.   

Summing Up 

The UK government’s support for landlords in addressing anti-social behaviour demonstrates its commitment to maintaining safe and harmonious living environments for all residents. By emphasizing alternative approaches to eviction, providing guidance, fostering collaboration with local authorities, and addressing root causes, the government aims to strike a balance between the rights of landlords and tenants. This initiative signifies a positive step towards building stronger communities and promoting a responsible renting culture in the UK. 

We do support this approach – but for us its all about what happens in our community on a daily basis with real landlords and their issues.  From our vantage point as High Court enforcement officers, quality legal support is scarce, and fundamentally claims for possession are messed up from the time Notices are served.   

What we have set out to do here in Shergroup Enforcement and Shergroup Legal is to signpost landlords to straightforward legal advice which gets their paperwork in order and compliant and allows them to serve Notices and Claims for Possession with an end game in mind.   

If you would like to know more about how we can help you please contact us at www.shergroup.com – and you can then reach us by phone, email, or chat to start a conversation.   

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