What are Section.21 Notices?

Pursuant to S.21 of the Housing Act 1988, private Landlords are currently able to evict their assured short-hold Tenants by serving a S.21 Notice. The Notice must be served at least two months prior to the Landlord’s desired eviction date and Landlords are not required to provide a reason for the eviction and so these Notices are often referred to as ‘No-Fault Evictions.’

There are several conditions and requirements that must be satisfied by the Landlord prior to the service of S.21 Notices, and these may invalidate S.21 Notices if they are not adhered to. Amongst other requirements, the Landlord must ensure that the Tenant’s deposit is protected, and an up to date gas safety certificate, energy performance certificate and ‘How to Rent’ guide is provided to the Tenant all within particular time frames. For full details of the requirements, please visit: If you get a ‘section 21’ eviction notice – Citizens Advice

Farewell S.21 Notices…

With the introduction of the new Labour Government and the Renters’ Rights Bill as published on 11th September 2024, it has been confirmed that the Government plans to abolish S.21 Notices.

A definitive date for this to come into effect is yet to be determined, however, it is likely that this will be around Spring 2025.

The effect of the abolishment would be applicable to new and also existing Notices and is likely to cause an uproar in the private rented sector for Landlords. For Tenants, however, the abolishment of the notorious S.21 Notice is likely to offer a sense of security for their homes and will also ensure that their Landlords are more open and accountable if they are to be evicted.

The overall objective of these changes is to essentially create a more balanced private rental market where Tenants’ rights are protected and eviction processes are more reasonable and clear.

The Alternatives for Landlords…

The abolition of S.21 Notices does raise questions about how Landlords are able to re-gain full control and possession of their properties, if they have legitimate reasons for doing so.

It is anticipated that Landlords will primarily rely on S.8 of the Housing Act 1988 to evict Tenants. S.8 has more stringent requirements to be effective as Landlords are required to provide specific grounds for eviction. Some of the grounds of eviction are as follows;

  • Rent arrears;
  • Anti-social Behaviour;
  • Landlord wanting to live in the property.

To read more about Section 8 Notices, please visit: If you get a ‘section 8’ eviction notice – Citizens Advice

How can we Help?

If you are a Landlord seeking to take possession of your property, or a Tenant in need of advice following receipt of an Eviction Notice, then please contact our Dispute Resolution team for advice and assistance.

Article written by Rathan Kumar, Trainee Solicitor.

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