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If a tenant falls into serious rent arrears (over 2 months or 8 weeks – depending on rent period) a landlord now needs to give minimum 3 months notice to their tenant before court proceedings can begin. Previous to the coronavirus pandemic, this notice period was no less than 2 weeks.
The prescribed Form 3 has been updated and published by the Government to reflect this change. This form should be used by landlords from 27th March 2020 up to 30th September 2020 but this date may be extended.
Tenants’ obligation to pay rent has not changed. There are many financial packages available to most people affected financially by the coronavirus pandemic. Landlords should have discussions with their tenants and remain understanding and flexible with regards to any financial difficulties. Any rent payments that are not paid in full would be classed as arrears and would need to be paid back to the landlord at a later date.
