In a recent case that could have far-reaching implications for landlords and tenants in the UK, Byrne v Harwood-Delgado (2022) brought to light a critical issue concerning section 21 notices under the Housing Act 1988 (HA 1988). The case of Byrne v Harwood-Delgado revolved around a tenant who took possession of a residential property in August 2019 under an assured shorthold tenancy agreement.

Tenant Dispute

The tenant disputed whether they had received a gas safety record before moving in. Later, the landlord served the tenant with a gas safety record in November 2019, several months after the tenancy began. In November 2020, the landlord issued a section 21 notice, leading to legal proceedings initiated by the tenant.

At the initial hearing in January 2022, Deputy District Judge Wright ruled in favor of the landlord, stating that the late provision of the gas safety record did not invalidate the section 21 notice. However, the tenant appealed the decision. The appeal, heard in May 2022 by Her Honour Judge Bloom, resulted in a significant shift. HHJ Bloom concluded that the landlord’s failure to provide a gas safety record before the tenant moved in was a substantial breach of duty. This breach could not be remedied by providing the gas safety record later. As a result, the landlord was barred from serving a section 21 notice at any point during the tenancy.

Landlord Law

Exploring the Byrne v Harwood-Delgado case necessitates acknowledging the effects of Trecarrell House Ltd v Rouncefield. The latter case established that landlords, while not required to provide gas safety records at the start of a tenancy, must do so prior to issuing a section 21 notice. However, the Byrne case introduced a new scenario: here, the landlord did not secure a gas safety certificate at all before the tenancy began, creating a notable contrast from the procedural error witnessed in Trecarrell House.

Landlords should take this case as a reminder of their legal obligations. It reinforces the importance of complying with all safety and documentation requirements, including providing gas safety records, before a tenant moves in. This case enhances tenant protections by emphasising the significance of ensuring that rental properties are safe and in compliance with regulations. It strengthens the argument that tenants have a right to expect safety from the outset of their tenancy.

Section 21

Tenants facing eviction through a section 21 notice may use this case as a defence if landlords failed to provide a gas safety record before the tenancy commenced. It introduces a new avenue for tenants to challenge eviction. This case also raises questions about the future of section 21 notices. With the UK government’s commitment to abolish section 21 of the HA 1988, this decision might add weight to the argument for reform, potentially making it more challenging for landlords to terminate tenancies without cause.

Our conclusion and how we can help

While the ultimate fate of section 21 notices remains uncertain, this case highlights the importance of landlords adhering to their legal obligations, ensuring safety from the start of a tenancy, and staying informed about evolving regulations in the rental sector. It serves as a reminder that compliance with legal obligations is crucial for landlords to navigate the complex landscape of property rentals successfully.

If you would like further information or advice on the above, please contact Will Oakes in the Litigation Team at 01206 239764.

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