With England having now begun it second coronavirus lockdown, the government has confirmed that renters will be protected during the national restrictions, with no bailiff enforcement action in the short-term.

Evictions will not be enforced by bailiffs until 11 January 2021 at the earliest, except for the most serious cases such as anti-social behaviour.

Bailiffs had already agreed to a government request in October not to enforce court orders against tenants in Tier 2 (high) and Tier 3 (very high) locations.

Housing secretary Robert Jenrick said: “We have already 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.

“We are now going further by protecting renters from eviction during the new national restrictions and throughout the Christmas period – with a pause on bailiff activity other than in the most serious circumstances, such as anti-social behaviour or fraud.

“Striking the right balance between helping tenants in need while ensuring landlords have access to justice in the most serious cases.”

Fresh guidance has been issued by the government for landlords and tenants that agents will find useful.

The non-statutory guidance provides greater clarity on matters relating to notices seeking possession as amended by the Coronavirus Act 2020, along with health and safety obligations, including repairs and inspections in the context of Covid-19.

You can view the guidance by clicking here.