Section 21 Abolished: Landlord Law Experts Call for Calm and Clarity Amid Sweeping Reforms

Over time, however, Section 21 became entangled in compliance requirements, with landlords needing to meet a growing checklist - including issuing a “How to Rent” guide, providing EPC and gas safety certificates, and ensuring proper deposit protection - just to serve a valid notice. Now, the complete removal of Section 21 is yet another change in an already complex legal landscape.

But is this truly the end of ‘no-fault’ evictions? Not entirely. Under the proposed legislation, new possession grounds will allow landlords to regain control of properties if they intend to sell or move in themselves or for family use; all situations that are, in essence, non-fault based. While the legal tools may be changing, the right to reclaim possession in these scenarios remains intact - albeit through a potentially more litigious route. 

As a result, landlords are being advised to reframe their approach. Strategic legal planning, thorough documentation, and early advice will become more crucial than ever. To support landlords through this transitional period, Landlord Advice UK continues to offer legal advice, templates, services, and more.

“Section 21 was more than a notice: it was a strategic mechanism,” says Sasha Charles managing director of Landlord Advice UK. “It allowed landlords to avoid court delays and disputes over rent arrears or alleged disrepair. With its removal, the process becomes more contentious and possibly more expensive. But this isn’t a catastrophe. It’s a challenge, yes, but one that landlords can meet with the right advice and preparation.”