The government's long-promised promise to abolish Section 21 'no-fault' evictions is facing mounting pressure from Age UK, which claims that this provision leaves older renters at risk of sudden homelessness and significant instability in their later years. According to the charity, the continued existence of Section 21 disproportionately affects these vulnerable individuals, who may have few options for rehousing.
The government first pledged to end Section 21 evictions in its 2019 manifesto, acknowledging that these evictions create insecurity for tenants. This provision allows landlords to regain possession without needing a reason, often leaving renters with little time to find alternative accommodation. Age UK's intervention highlights the growing frustration among housing advocates over the slow progress in implementing this long-promised reform.
The proposed Renter's Reform Bill aims to deliver on this commitment by replacing Section 21 with new grounds for landlords to repossess their properties, but its passage through Parliament has been protracted. This delay raises concerns that the reforms may be watered down or further delayed, leaving hundreds of thousands of renters in limbo.
Caroline Abrahams, Charity Director at Age UK, highlighted the terror that many older people face when facing a Section 21 eviction. Moving home can be stressful for anyone, but for an older person it can be particularly traumatic, especially if they have lived in their home for years and have limited physical or financial capacity to manage a sudden relocation.
The call from Age UK aligns with broader pressure from housing charities and tenant advocacy groups, who argue that removing Section 21 is crucial for rebalancing the power dynamic between landlords and tenants. They claim it offers much-needed protection against arbitrary evictions and fosters a more stable private rental sector. The government faces increasing scrutiny to deliver on its commitment and ensure the Renter's Reform Bill provides meaningful change for tenants across the UK.
Source: Age UK