MPs have voted in favour of the government’s Renters’ Reform Bill – including an indefinite delay to the end of Section 21 no-fault evictions.

A debate on the legislation took place in the House of Commons yesterday (Wednesday April 24) in which 200 amendments were included for discussion.

The most contentious aspect of the Bill for many landlords was the proposed abolition of fixed term tenancies. However, an amendment put forward by backbench MPs in which tenants would have to stay in a tenancy for a minimum of six months was agreed during the debate.

The abolition of Section 21, currently the legal method used by landlords to evict tenants without having to provide any reason, was agreed with an amendment it would only go ahead after a review of the courts system had taken place.

It was first promised by the government five years ago and was included in the proposed Bill when it first came to the House last May.

Levelling up minister Jacob Young told MPs: “We’re investing £1.2 million for the courts and tribunals service to deliver these new processes.

“If we don’t have a ready court system when we make this change, the biggest change in 30 years, if the courts aren’t ready for these changes that will not benefit tenants, it won’t benefit landlords, but it certainly won’t benefit tenants either.”

However he offered no timeline meaning there is no clear date for when it will actually be outlawed.

Elsewhere proposals agreed included the introduction of a decent home standard, the establishment of a new ombudsman, allowing tenants to bring their pets and stopping landlords having blanket bans on renting to those with children or who are on benefits.

Sheldon Bosley Knight’s associate director Nik Kyriacou said: “It is extremely disappointing there is still no date for when the abolition of Section 21 might come into force.

“As a key part of the proposed legislation, and the fact this has been in the making for five years, a date for implementation is vital. Landlords and tenants just need clarity on when it will happen.

“However I am pleased there has been some compromise on the issue of the abolition of fixed term tenancies. The amendment as approved will give some security of tenure to both landlords and tenants which will be a good thing.”

A department for levelling up, housing and communities spokesperson said: “Our commitment to scrap section 21 no-fault evictions as soon as possible is unchanged.

“We have always said we will give six months’ notice before ending section 21 for all new tenancies. In addition, we have committed to ensuring improvements in the courts service are rapidly implemented before extending this abolition to all existing tenancies.”