Government puts ban on evictions for commercial tenants who miss rent

While recognising that many landlords and tenants are already having conversations and reaching voluntary arrangements about rental payments due shortly, the government has drafted new measures to protect businesses struggling with their cash flow due to the coronavirus. 

Included in the emergency Coronavirus Bill currently going through Parliament, the measures will mean that no business will be forced out of their premises if they miss a payment in the next three months.

"We are protecting both people and their businesses by providing the urgent support they need," said Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick.

As commercial tenants will still be liable for the rent after this period, the government revealed it is also actively monitoring the impact on commercial landlords’ cash flow and continues to be in dialogue with them.

"We know many commercial landlords are already setting a great example by working closely with tenants and offering rent deferrals or holidays," Mr Jenrick said. 

"However, these new measures will provide reassurance to businesses struggling with cash flows and ensure no commercial tenant is evicted if they cannot pay their rent because of coronavirus over the next three months."

Also commenting on the latest coronavirus aid offered to small business, the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rishi Sunak, said, "We are taking unprecedented action and doing so at unprecedented speed, because we know that businesses and their employees need help now.

"That is why we are taking steps to change the law so that no company can be forced out of its premises due to loss of income. Alongside our support for workers and £330 billion of business loans and guarantees, this will help make a real difference to firms across the country trying to protect jobs."