Boris confirms end to Section 21 evictions and launches ‘Lifetime Deposits’

Boris Johnson has revealed several major shifts in government policy for the private rented sector and, as predicted, has put evictions at the centre of the General Election housing debate. In an article published by The Sun newspaper early this morning, Johnson has confirmed that the government will proceed with banning Section 21 eviction notices. “At the moment, renting a property can also be an uncertain and unsettling business, and the costs of deposits make it harder to move. We are going to fix that,” says Johnson. “A Conservative majority government will empower renters and give them greater peace of mind.” The policy has been opposed by landlords and many agents because it will push all evictions into the courts, making it harder and more expensive to eject tenants who default on their rent. Hugely welcome But homelessness charities have welcomed the move including Shelter, whose chief executive Polly Neate says: “Reports that Conservatives plan to scrap Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions are hugely welcome. “If enacted, this would transform private renting for millions of people by providing them with stability and security.” Johnson has also said that if elected his government would bring in a system of transferable tenancy…