£20m Boost for Civil Legal Aid: What Landlords Need to Know

For the first time in nearly three decades, civil legal aid fees are set to rise with a £20 million annual investment. While the government’s focus is on helping vulnerable tenants facing eviction or homelessness, this development could have significant implications for landlords as well.

Let’s take a closer look at what’s happening and what it means for you.

What’s Changing?

The additional funding aims to make legal aid more accessible for tenants dealing with eviction, housing disrepair, or debt. According to Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood, the plan is part of a broader strategy to strengthen the legal aid sector and clear civil court backlogs.

The government will consult in January on increasing legal aid fees for housing-related cases, proposing rates of £65-£69 per hour (outside London vs. London) or a 10% uplift, whichever is higher.

Why This Matters for Landlords

While this funding is meant to support tenants, it’s likely to bring challenges for landlords:

1. Increased tenant litigation: With greater access to legal advice, tenants may be more likely to challenge evictions or raise housing disrepair claims.
2. Longer court processes: Tackling the backlog is a priority, but more funding could mean an increase in the number of cases going to court, potentially slowing resolution times for landlords.
3. Higher operational risks: The focus on tenant protection—combined with other legislative changes like banning Section 21 evictions—may increase the complexity and cost of managing rental properties.

What the Experts Are Saying

Richard Atkinson, President of the Law Society, supports the funding but warns it’s only a small step toward addressing the bigger issues in the legal aid system. Nearly half the population in England and Wales lacks access to local housing legal aid providers, creating significant gaps in representation.

From a landlord’s perspective, this means a growing focus on tenants’ rights while leaving landlords with fewer tools to protect their investments.

What Should Landlords Do?

1. Stay informed: Keep up to date with changes in legal aid funding and legislation, as they can impact how you manage your properties.
2. Be proactive: Ensure your property complies with legal standards to minimize disputes over disrepair or housing conditions.
3. Seek expert advice: If disputes arise, working with legal professionals who specialize in landlord-tenant law can help protect your interests.

The Bigger Picture

While this funding aims to make the justice system more balanced, it highlights a growing trend toward empowering tenants without fully addressing landlords’ needs. As the legal landscape evolves, landlords will need to adapt to protect their properties and ensure smooth tenancies.

At Confidence Property, we’re here to help landlords navigate these challenges. Want to know more about what these changes mean for you? Get in touch today to stay ahead in an ever-changing market.