Government figures indicate that accelerated landlord possession claims increased by 16% year-on-year between April and June 2026. These claims encompass cases that involve Section 21 notices.
This rise follows the Renters' Rights Act coming into effect on 1 May, which abolished Section 21 'no-fault' evictions. South East law firm Thackray Williams has reported a sharp increase in instructions from landlords seeking vacant possession, as well as from tenants challenging eviction notices.
Mustafa Sidki, contentious construction litigation partner at Thackray Williams, stated that the number of landlords looking to sell is exacerbating the lack of affordable rental housing. He added that tenants are challenging eviction notices because they are struggling to find alternative accommodation.
A Savills survey conducted in June found that 11% of landlords had sold one or more properties. The survey also indicated that 30% of landlords were considerably more likely to consider disposing of rental properties in the next 24 months, rising to 54% for mortgaged landlords.