Possession & Section 21 - Renters' Rights Act 2025

What you need to know

• Section 21 is being abolished—no more “no-fault” evictions.
• Landlords must use specific legal grounds to regain possession.
• New protections ensure possession claims are fair and evidence-based.
• Preparation and documentation are essential for compliance.

Under the new rules

• Section 21 will be abolished entirely.
• Landlords will now have to provide a valid and legally defined reason to evict.
• Certain grounds for possession cannot be used during the first 12 months of a new tenancy.

Grounds for possession will include

• Selling the property: Landlords can regain possession if they intend to sell. This will require 4 months' notice and cannot be used for the first 12 months of a tenancy.  
• Moving in: Landlords or close family members can reclaim the property for personal use. This will require 4 months' notice and cannot be used for the first 12 months of a tenancy. 
• Tenant fault: Grounds such as rent arrears, anti-social behaviour, or breach of tenancy remain valid, and landlords will be able to give shorter notice periods for these.
• Repeated serious arrears: A new ground allows possession for tenants who are persistently in rent arrears. This will require 4 weeks' notice.

What this means

• Landlords cannot use the intention to sell ground within the first twelve months of a tenancy.
• If a landlord regains possession on the basis of selling or moving in, they cannot re-let the property for twelve months.
• Tenants will have the right to challenge possession claims in court, and judges will assess whether the grounds are met.

To prepare for the changes

• Familiarise yourself with the new eviction grounds and associated notice periods.
• Keep detailed records—especially if planning to sell, move in, or claim tenant breach.
• Review tenancy agreements to ensure they align with the new legal framework.