Citadel Homes renters in Carlisle face steep rent rises and possible eviction

We're hearing that tenants at Citadel Homes in Carlisle are facing rent increases as high as 30%, with Section 21 no-fault eviction notices for those who refuse the new terms.

This comes just before the Renters’ Rights Act comes into effect in May, bringing significant changes for 11 million renters in England, abolishing Section 21 eviction notices and allowing tenants to contest substantial rent hikes.

However, as it stands they are currently still legal.

"This sudden increase is a shock,” one tenant shared. "We've built our lives here, around the community and Carlisle, and now we're faced with two options: sign a new tenancy agreement, or leave by the 30th April."

Expecting a baby in August, the tenant expressed: "We’re trying to plan for the future and keep as much stability as we can, especially with housing and finances.

"Seeing something like that through the door creates a lot of uncertainty. We are forced to make decisions we weren't planning on making.

"I think the feeling is morally it's wrong.

"It does come across as intimidating because it is serious. We've built a home. Lots of people have built homes, like actual places that we live day in and day out. You make it your own. This is where you decide to live and work from and raise children or pets."

Citadel Homes

Citadel Homes stated that these changes align with compliance under the Renters’ Rights Act enacted by the Labour Government. A spokesperson commented: "The Renters’ Rights Act recently introduced by the Labour Government has placed new legislation, obligations, compliance changes and mandatory fees on all landlords.

"As a private company, not a housing association, Citadel Homes must comply with these changes.

"A number of tenants have previously benefitted from a discounted rent; however, this is unfortunately no longer sustainable. As a result, we have had to make the difficult decision to bring all rents to the same level in each of our developments.

"We appreciate that any rent increase is unwelcome but unlike other private landlords who have been selling their properties, Citadel Homes remains committed to providing high quality fully managed homes at a competitive price in Carlisle."

Renters' Rights Act

Housing Secretary Steve Reed emphasized the law's role in safeguarding tenants: "We’re calling time on no-fault evictions and rogue landlords. Everyone should have peace of mind and the security of a roof over their head."

The act introduces regulations that limit rent increases to once a year, prohibits landlords from requiring more than one month's rent upfront, and prevents rental bidding wars.

Additionally, a Private Landlord Ombudsman and a central online database for all landlords will be launched to aid dispute resolution.