MP Helen Hayes Advocates for New Safeguards to Protect Bereaved Families
In a significant move to protect bereaved families from the predatory practices of landlords, Member of Parliament for Dulwich and West Norwood, Helen Hayes, has welcomed new measures introduced by the Government.
Background and Advocacy
Since July 5, 2024, Helen Hayes has been tirelessly campaigning for this change, driven by a heartbreaking case in her constituency. In this instance, grieving parents found themselves held accountable for rental payments after their son tragically passed away by suicide.
Recounting the devastating ordeal faced by her constituents, Ms. Hayes emphasized the unjust treatment they endured. Despite the untimely death of their son before he could even occupy the rented property, the letting agency insisted that the parents remained liable for the rent and responsible for finding a new tenant. This added burden placed on a family already grappling with profound loss was deemed both cruel and unnecessary by the MP.
Legislative Action and Support
Taking action to rectify this injustice, Ms. Hayes tabled amendments to the Renters’ Rights Bill, which recently returned to the House of Commons for debate. The proposed amendments aimed to prohibit guarantor agreements from being enforceable in the tragic event of a tenant’s passing. This crucial change would shift the responsibility of lost rental income due to a tenant’s death to the landlord’s insurance policy, alleviating the financial strain on grieving families.
The amendments put forward by Helen Hayes garnered widespread support from across the political spectrum in the House of Commons, reflecting the urgency and necessity of protecting bereaved families from exploitation during times of immense vulnerability.
Transformative Impact and Future Reforms
The Renters’ Rights Bill, championed by Ms. Hayes, heralds a new era of comprehensive reforms in the private rented sector, marking the most significant changes in over three decades. Among the key provisions of the Bill are prohibitions on Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions, rental bidding wars, and the extension of crucial housing standards to the private rental market.
As the Bill progresses towards implementation, Helen Hayes remains resolute in her commitment to advocating for the rights and protections of renters in Dulwich and West Norwood. Her unwavering dedication to safeguarding vulnerable families from exploitation and injustice underscores the transformative impact of her advocacy efforts.
Pictured at the top: Helen Hayes, Member of Parliament for Dulwich and West Norwood (Picture: Helen Hayes)
