Harlow’s MP has welcomed ‘unprecedented’ measures to protect renters with a ban on all evictions during the coronavirus pandemic.
No renter in either social or private accommodation will be forced out of their home while the country deals with Covid-19, following the approval of new measures last week.
Court services have also suspended all ongoing housing possession cases.
Robert Halfon, MP for Harlow, welcomed the “complete protection” the news afforded to Harlow renters.
He said: “The actions the Government are taking are unprecedented and they will support everyone in our community.
“I want to thank the Housing Secretary, Robert Jenrick MP, for working with so many organisations, particularly the housing charity, Shelter.
“I would also like to take this opportunity to express my appreciation to the staff at Harlow Council for all they are doing to help residents through this difficult time. I will continue to work closely with the council, our incredible community groups and charities, to coordinate our response to the virus.”
Recognising the additional pressures the virus may put on landlords, the government also confirmed the three month mortgage payment holiday will be extended to landlords whose tenants are experiencing financial difficulties due to the deadly.
Housing secretary Robert Jenrick MP said: “The government is clear – no renter who has lost income due to coronavirus will be forced out of their home, nor will any landlord face unmanageable debts.
“These are extraordinary times and renters and landlords alike are of course worried about paying their rent and mortgage. Which is why we are urgently introducing emergency legislation to protect tenants in social and private accommodation from an eviction process being started.
“These changes will protect all renters and private landlords ensuring everyone gets the support they need at this very difficult time.”
Ben Beadle, chief executive of the National Residential Landlords association, added:”Landlord groups welcomes government support. We recognise the exceptional circumstances and we will work collaboratively with government to ensure these measures protect both landlords and tenants.”
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