What Impact Will The General Election Have On The Renters Reform Bill?

Impact of the General Election on the Renters (Reform) Bill

24 May 2024

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has made a surprise announcement that a general election will be held on 4 July 2024. This raises questions about the future of the Renters (Reform) Bill.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced on 22 May that a general election will take place on 4 July 2024, stating, “Now is the moment for Britain to choose its future.” This announcement prompts letting agents and landlords to consider the potential impacts on current bills and policies, including the Renters (Reform) Bill.

What does the general election mean for the Renters (Reform) Bill? Currently in the House of Lords and awaiting Royal Assent, the bill's fate is now uncertain. This guide aims to help landlords understand the possible outcomes for the Renters (Reform) Bill in light of the upcoming election.

Current Status of the Renters (Reform) Bill

The Renters (Reform) Bill is in the Committee Stage in the House of Lords. After passing through the House of Commons in April 2024, the bill has progressed more rapidly in the House of Lords. However, the unexpected announcement of a general election has introduced uncertainty about whether the bill will pass before the election.

Parliamentary Closure for the General Election

To hold the general election, Prime Minister Sunak requested the King to close parliament on 22 May. This means all business in both the House of Commons and House of Lords must conclude, including debates and legislative progress. Parliament will be prorogued on 24 May, marking the end of the parliamentary session, and both houses will fully dissolve on 30 May.

During the days leading up to 30 May, parliament will continue business as usual, attempting to finalize any outstanding matters. However, any incomplete business, such as the Renters (Reform) Bill, will not be carried over to the next parliament.

Prospects for the Renters (Reform) Bill Becoming Law

It remains uncertain whether the Renters (Reform) Bill will become law under the current government. The House of Lords must complete three stages—committee stage, report stage, and third reading—before the bill can receive Royal Assent. Given that parliament will dissolve on 30 May, the likelihood of the bill passing in time is slim. Nevertheless, Landords should stay informed about developments in the coming weeks. We will try to keep everyone posted with updates as they come in.