Tenants in England and Wales Get Crucial Eviction Shield Amid Covid Restrictions
Good news for renters! Tenants in parts of England and Wales facing tighter Covid-19 restrictions are now protected from eviction thanks to a fresh deal between the government and bailiffs. The government has ordered bailiffs to halt evictions in areas classified as “high” or “very high” Covid alert levels.
Bailiffs Put on Notice to Halt Evictions in High-Risk Areas
Justice Secretary Robert Buckland sent a firm letter to bailiffs’ trade bodies this week, urging them not to enter homes for evictions or to seize property in hotspots labelled local alert levels two (high) and three (very high).
“We would request that your members instruct enforcement agents not to enter properties under local alert level two or three for enforcement,” Buckland said.
The High Court Enforcement Officers Association (HCEOA) has agreed unanimously to comply, though court eviction proceedings can continue and may resume once restrictions ease.
Christmas Eviction Ban to Keep Families Safe over Festive Period
On top of the Covid eviction freeze, the government has secured a nationwide Christmas eviction ban from 11 December 2020 to 11 January 2021. No renters in England or Wales will face eviction during the festive season — a rare holiday reprieve giving struggling families vital peace of mind.
Eviction Rules: What You Need to Know
- Previous blanket eviction ban ended in September 2020.
- New regulations require landlords to give six months’ notice before eviction except in serious cases.
- Tier 2 and 3 regions in England – including London, Liverpool, Manchester, South Yorkshire, and Lancashire – are covered by the bailiff eviction pause.
- Wales is in a separate firebreak lockdown with evictions paused until 9 November. Evictions may resume until the Christmas freeze starts in December.
- Scotland remains unaffected, with an eviction ban extended until March 2021.
Your Tenant Rights Explained
No landlord can legally evict you without a written notice and court order. Harassment, illegal lockouts, or Section 21 “no-fault” notices during the first four months of your tenancy aren’t allowed. Landlords must use Section 8 notices backed by legal grounds, like rent arrears, and get possession orders from the court.
Struggling to Pay Rent? Act Now
One in four renters worry about paying rent amid the pandemic. If you face financial trouble, talk to your landlord immediately. Try negotiating reduced payments temporarily if full payment isn’t possible, especially if you can catch up later.
Also, check whether you qualify for government support like Universal Credit or housing benefits. If you already claim these, ask your local council about discretionary housing payments, which may cover rent and pay landlords directly.
Stay informed, know your rights, and don’t wait until eviction notices arrive — help is available.
