Section 21 evictions, commonly known as “no-fault” evictions, have been a significant point of contention in England’s housing sector. These evictions allow landlords to reclaim their properties without providing a specific reason.
What is a Section 21 Eviction?
Under Section 21 of the Housing Act 1988, landlords can serve tenants with a notice requiring them to vacate the property after a fixed-term tenancy ends or during a periodic tenancy, without needing to establish fault. The minimum notice period is two months, but it can be longer depending on the tenancy agreement.
Reform
In response to growing concerns over housing stability, the UK government introduced the Renters’ Rights Bill, aiming to abolish Section 21 evictions. This legislation seeks to ensure that tenants can only be evicted for specified reasons, such as rent arrears or property damage, under Section 8 notices.
Current Status
As of May 2025, the Renters’ Rights Bill is progressing through Parliament, with the House of Lords concluding its committee stage.
What’s coming up?
The anticipated abolition of Section 21 evictions represents a significant shift in England’s rental landscape. While the reforms aim to enhance tenant security, they also prompt discussions about balancing the rights and responsibilities of both landlords and tenants.
If you are a Landlord and would like to make use of s21 whilst it remains an option, please contact our Dispute Resolution Team on 01756 799 000.