Fewer Tenants Being Evicted By Landlords

Landlords are continuing to evict fewer tenants, according to the latest official figures.

The Ministry of Justice says that in the second quarter of this year, private landlords brought 6,079 repossession claims before the courts. That's down from the first quarter's figure of 6,266 repossession claims.

The figures also highlight that possession claims reached 26,695, that is a fall of 9% on the same time last year, and possession orders fell by 6% to 21,384.

Also, the number of warrants fell by 4% to 13,685 and repossessions dropping to 7,428, a fall 10%.

Of the claims, 58% originated from a social landlord, 19% of them were accelerated claims with the remainder coming from landlords.

'Private landlord claims grew by 2%'

In a report, the Ministry of Justice says: "The proportion of claims from private landlords grew by 2% since the same quarter last year and accelerated claims fell by 2%.

"The landlord possession claims fall is in all regions and the largest decrease was seen in the Midlands and London courts."

The report goes on to say that a claim for repossession takes, on average, 19.6 weeks to proceed through a court when a year ago, it took 19.7 weeks.

With 25% of claims reaching repossession, the figure is unchanged from 2018.

Property viewing turn-offs for tenants

Meanwhile, a survey has revealed the property turnoffs for tenants who are viewing a property.

The findings have been published by Sell House Fast who questioned tenants and potential homebuyers about what puts them off a property.

Topping the list are extensive cracks as well as stains and marks on ceilings, walls and floors for 76% of viewers.

Also, 71% said they were dissatisfied to find the fixtures, including taps and toilets that did not function properly, including toilets not flushing or low water pressure.

‘Unhappy to see exposed wires’

For 66%, they were unhappy to see exposed wires which they saw as a serious safety hazard and 63% said they were cautious about flooring been broken, uneven or damaged.

Also, 54% said a home with worn out or heavily damaged kitchen cabinets and cupboards also put them off.

Among the fixes that should be encouraged, 73% of estate agents suggest that landlords should thoroughly clean all household appliances, particularly in the kitchen before they conduct a property viewing with a tenant.

They also said that gardens should be 'presentable' and that cleaning both small and large items will encourage tenants.