Tenants will be able to instigate tribunal challenges to proposed rent rises for a mere £47 it’s been revealed.
The charge for applications to appeal a rent increase is one of the lowest across the court service and also comes without a ‘hearing fee’ for challenges.
The Renters Rights Act gives tenants new and greater powers to challenge rent increases, which will in any case be permitted once a year.
Such a rise must be made via a section 13 notice and must be in line with the local market rate.
The National Residential Landlords Association says even if the claim is unsuccessful rent payments cannot be backdated, meaning that – other than the low £47 fee – there is no disincentive for tenant to challenge proposed increases.
The cut price deal for tenants was announced by the Ministry of Justice in a response to a written question from Labour MP Kerry McCarthy.
Junior justice minister Sarah Sackman told McCarthy: “The government has laid legislation to begin the process of implementing a new fees framework in the Property Chamber.
“The purpose of the new framework is to deliver a fair and sustainable Property Chamber that is accessible to all.
“The framework includes a fee of £47 for applications to appeal a rent increase, with no hearing fee – this is one of the lowest fees across HMCTS.”
In addition those who cannot afford to mount a challenge will get public cash to help them.
She said: “The Help with Fees scheme will always be available to provide financial support to those who cannot afford to pay fees.”
This article is taken from Landlord Today