Ban on Evictions will not be extended

Some clarity from the Government today over the process of eviction in the Private Rented Sector. Currently Courts are closed to new possession proceedings until the 23rd August 2020.

There was some discussion around whether this would be extended further in light of the Covid-19 crisis but the Government have confirmed that Courts will re-open and Landlords can apply for possession in the cases of serious rent arrears and anti-social behaviour, for example.

No doubt there will be a significant back log as the Courts work to catch up on applications that stretch back to March.

It is still important to continue to work with tenants who have fallen into rent arrears as a result of the crisis by offering deferred rent payment plans if at all possible. This is preferred to taking action that could cause emotional hardship on the tenant and possible homelessness. Where a Landlord can show they have done as much as they can, and a tenant is not responding with the same attention to the matter then a possession claim may have to be the last resort.

Please note the date this article was published as the law may have changed since it was posted. You should always seek independent legal advice if you are intending to rely on any of the contents.