The Fate of the Renters Reform Bill and the Leasehold & Freehold Reform Bill

With a general election called for 4th July 2024, the long-awaited Renters Reform Bill and the Leasehold & Freehold Reform Bill face an uncertain future. Both bills, years in the making and the result of extensive campaigning and consultation, are now at risk of being stalled or scrapped entirely.

The parliamentary calendar adds to the urgency. Both the House of Lords and the House of Commons break for the Whitsun recess on 24th May, leaving only a narrow window for legislative action.

The impending recess and subsequent dissolution of Parliament for the election mean that any bills not passed will lapse.

The "wash-up" period, the final days of a parliamentary session before dissolution, offers a slim hope for the bills.

During this time, the government and opposition parties often negotiate to pass uncontroversial or broadly supported legislation quickly.

However, this process is typically reserved for less contentious measures.

Given the significant changes proposed by both the Renters Reform Bill and the Leasehold & Freehold Reform Bill, including abolishing Section 21 "no-fault" evictions and overhauling leasehold laws, it's uncertain whether they could be expedited through the wash-up without significant compromise.

The Renters Reform Bill, which aims to transform the rental market by enhancing tenant protections and ensuring fairer conditions, is at a critical juncture. Key provisions include the abolition of Section 21 evictions, the introduction of a new ombudsman for private landlords, and reforms to improve housing standards.

 If the bill is not passed before Parliament dissolves, it will have to be reintroduced in the new session, a process that could delay its implementation by months or even years, depending on the priorities of the next government.

 Similarly, the Leasehold & Freehold Reform Bill, designed to address the complexities and inequalities in leasehold arrangements, is under threat.

This bill seeks to make it easier and cheaper for leaseholders to buy their freeholds, extend their leases, and challenge unfair charges. As with the Renters Reform Bill, any delay could postpone much-needed reforms, leaving many homeowners in limbo.

The fate of both bills hinges on the outcome of the general election and the priorities of the incoming government.

If the current administration is re-elected, there is a strong chance the bills will be reintroduced, potentially with some amendments.

However, if there is a change in government, the new administration may have different legislative priorities, which could further delay or alter the proposed reforms.

The announcement of a general election on 4th July 2024 places the Renters Reform Bill and the Leasehold & Freehold Reform Bill in a precarious position. The upcoming Whitsun recess and the limited time available for the wash-up period make it unlikely that these complex and significant pieces of legislation will be passed before Parliament is dissolved. As stakeholders and campaigners anxiously await the election results, the future of these crucial reforms remains uncertain, highlighting the often precarious nature of legislative progress in the face of political change.