Ban on bailiff evictions in England to be extended for 6 weeks to 31 March 2021

Exemptions remain in place for the 'most serious circumstances', with measures being kept under review in line with the latest public health advice

The ban on bailiff evictions in England is to be extended for another 6 weeks until 31 March 2021.

With the current ban due to expire on 21 February 2021, the government announced yesterday that -

'The ban on bailiff evictions - which was introduced at the start of the pandemic - has been extended for another 6 weeks ... with measures kept under review in line with the latest public health advice.

Exemptions remain in place for the most serious circumstances that cause the greatest strain on landlords as well as other residents and neighbours, such as illegal occupation, anti-social behaviour and arrears of 6 months’ rent or more.'

Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick said -

'We have taken unprecedented action to support renters during the pandemic including introducing a six-month notice period and financial support to help those struggling to pay their rent.

By extending the ban on the enforcement of evictions by bailiffs, in all but the most serious cases, we are ensuring renters remain protected during this difficult time.

Our measures strike the right balance between protecting tenants and enabling landlords to exercise their right to justice.'

For more information, see Housing Secretary extends support for renters during pandemic from gov.uk

NB - the Scottish Government announced a ban on eviction orders in Scotland to the end of March 2021 on 7 January 2021, with the Welsh Government issuing regulations to the same effect a day later. Measures to protect private tenants in Northern Ireland from eviction were extended to 31 March 2021 in September 2020.