Law firm Thackray Williams reports that landlords attempting to regain possession of their properties are encountering extended delays and increased legal costs. This is attributed to tenants challenging eviction notices, with the firm noting that every accelerated possession claim it has recently handled has been contested.
Mustafa Sidki, a contentious construction litigation partner at Thackray Williams, stated that all accelerated possession claims have been challenged by tenants who are requesting more time from the courts to find alternative accommodation. These challenges necessitate full court hearings, which contribute to higher costs and longer waits for landlords to secure vacant possession.
The firm also observed a rise in instructions from landlords seeking vacant possession both before and after the Renters’ Rights Act came into force on 1 May. Official figures indicate that Section 21 evictions increased by 16% between April and June compared to the same period in 2025.
Landlords are reportedly reassessing their investments due to pressures including tax, finance, and regulatory costs. A Savills survey in June found that 11% of landlords had sold one or more properties, and 30% were considerably more likely to consider selling properties within the next 24 months.