What an exciting month this has been for renters and for our union! On May 1st, the Renters Rights Act came into effect, finally bringing an end to Section 21 “no fault” evictions as well as a host of other changes to improve the lives of renters. You can find out more about your new rights here.
May has also meant the launch of our Resisting Rent Increases campaign. Thanks to the new law changes, it is now easier than ever to challenge your rent increase when it comes. It can take between 6 – 9 months for a decision on a rent increase dispute and in that time, you continue paying your current rent. Even if your rent does increase after the dispute process, this increase will not be backdated, meaning you could save hundreds of pounds! We’re asking renters in Oxford to pledge to dispute their rent increase – and we’ll help you every step of the way. You can find out more and register your interest here.
“While our wages stagnate, why should landlords expect a yearly pay rise?”; “Rent increase? Let’s dispute it!” – these were just some of the mottos Oxford Renters Union took to the streets with on May 2nd, when we joined the march to celebrate International Workers Day. Sporting homemade ORU T-shirts and placards designed by our members, we came out in numbers to march through the streets of Oxford and distribute flyers informing members of the public about their new rights and encouraging them to pledge with us.
It is sadly no surprise that many landlords have been selfishly scrambling to issue section 21 notices in the weeks leading up to the law changes. April saw a huge uptick in eviction notices that have blindsided renters across the country, and Oxford is no different. In our All Members’ Meeting this month, we received timely training in eviction resistance so that we can be prepared to stand up for our members against bailiffs. We’ve also been reviewing documents and notices, accompanying members to meetings with estate agents and landlords and planning next steps with members who are under threat of eviction. If you received a section 21 notice just before May 1st and want to discuss your options, become a member today and get in touch at admin@oxfordrentersunion.org.uk!