Solicitors across England have reported a late surge in requests to serve Section 21 'no-fault' eviction notices, just days before they are outlawed by the new Renters' Rights Act. The landmark legislation, widely described as the most significant overhaul of private renting in a generation, comes into force on Friday, bringing an end to the practice where landlords could evict tenants without providing a reason.
The Act's introduction marks a pivotal shift for the estimated 11 million people living in privately rented accommodation in England. Beyond banning no-fault evictions, the legislation is also set to limit the frequency and scale of rent increases, and abolish certain other charges. While these changes are broadly welcomed by tenant advocacy groups, the last-minute rush to issue Section 21 notices highlights a final push by some landlords to regain possession of properties under the outgoing rules.
An advice charity has confirmed it is currently assisting thousands of tenants who have received these last-minute eviction notices. Many of these individuals now face the daunting prospect of finding new accommodation in a challenging housing market, often with little time to prepare. The charity emphasised the need for tenants to understand their rights, even as the law transitions, and to seek immediate advice if they receive an eviction notice.
The government has stated the Renters' Rights Act is designed to create a fairer and more secure rental market, offering tenants greater stability and peace of mind. While the ban on Section 21 evictions is a central pillar, the Act also introduces measures to strengthen tenants' ability to challenge unfair practices and improve the overall quality of rented housing. Landlords will still be able to evict tenants under specific, legitimate grounds, which will be clearly defined within the new legislation.