21/07/2025
A Quick Hello… and a Not-So-Quick Goodbye to Section 21?
By Arjun Mediratta, Dispute Resolution, Rooks Rider Solicitors
Hello all,
I’m Arjun, the newest member of the Dispute Resolution team here at Rooks Rider Solicitors LLP. Before we get properly acquainted, I thought I’d jump straight into the legal trenches with a few thoughts on something that seems to be on every landlord's lips (and perhaps nerves): The Renters Reform Bill.
Yes, that old chestnut. Still in the House of Lords, currently queuing patiently for its third reading.
For those of you who have been fortunate enough to avoid the political ping-pong, this Bill marks the long-anticipated (and long-delayed) attempt to abolish Section 21 notices. This is also known as the so-called “no fault” eviction route under the Housing Act 1988. Kicked into the long grass by the previous government, it has now been raked back into the spotlight as part of Labour’s tenant centric legislative landscaping.
But what does this all mean for landlords?
Well, in short: getting tenants out just got trickier. The end of Section 21 means landlords will no longer be able to regain possession of their property without a specific reason. In other words, a goodbye without explanation is no longer on the menu. Instead, landlords will need to rely on prescribed statutory grounds (and preferably an honest one at that).
Naturally, this is causing a degree of unease in the buy-to-let sector, with investors, pension funds and landlords (even accidental ones). Fears are growing that without the flexibility Section 21 offered, many landlords will either be stuck in a long-term relationship with their tenant (for better or worse) or decide to pack it in altogether. Cue the estate agents rubbing their hands (did anyone watch the BBC investigation).
Add to that a court system already groaning under the weight of existing possession claims and you’ve got a recipe for delays (here’s looking at 6 months waiting lists in London, Birmingham and Manchester) disputes and potential drama. It’s safe to say that if this Bill passes, we’re likely to see an uptick in contested proceedings and a fair few landlords needing legal guidance on how to navigate this new terrain.
Sometimes, if it’s not broken, it doesn’t need fixing but Parliament seems determined to tighten the screws regardless.
Here at Rooks Rider, we’ll be keeping a close eye on developments and will continue to provide clear, practical updates as the Bill progresses (or staggers) through the legislative process.
In the meantime, whether you are a landlord seeking possession, a tenant needing clarity, or simply someone wondering where this all ends, I am here to help.
Tea and Section 8 notices at the ready.
Should you require further guidance on how these proposed changes may affect your rights or obligations as a landlord or tenant, please contact Arjun Mediratta in our Dispute Resolution team at Rooks Rider Solicitors: https://rooksrider.co.uk/people/arjun-mediratta/
