The Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 will come into force on the 20 March 2019 requiring landlords to ensure properties are fit for human habitation at the time the tenancy is granted and will remain fit for human habitation.
The changes will initially be in force for all new periodic tenancies or those granted for a fixed term of 7 years or less (or longer if granted by a RP) granted on or after 20 March 2019. It will then apply to all tenancies that become a periodic tenancy after 20 March 2019 (as and when they turn periodic or are renewed). Finally, it will apply to all existing periodic tenancies on 20 March 2020.
The Ministry of Housing Communities and Local Government has recently published guidance for tenants, landlords and local authorities to help explain and plan for the changes. The guidance can be found here.
For more information or to see how we can help you prepare for the changes, please contact Lee Russell or Donna McCarthy in our Housing Management team.
