No-Fault Evictions to End in England by May 2026
London, UK – Landlords in England will no longer be able to evict tenants without a valid reason starting May 2026, marking the end of “no-fault” evictions under Section 21 of the Housing Act 1988. the long-awaited change, announced as part of the Renters (Reform) Bill, aims to strengthen renters’ rights and create a fairer housing system.
The ban on Section 21 evictions impacts millions of renters in England who currently face the possibility of losing their homes with just two months’ notice, even if they have consistently paid rent and adhered to their tenancy agreement. While welcomed by renters’ rights groups, the delay until May 2026 has drawn criticism, with concerns raised about the potential for landlords to attempt evictions before the new law takes effect. The legislation also introduces changes regarding evictions for tenant misconduct and allows landlords to evict if they intend to sell the property or move in themselves, but not within the first 12 months of a tenancy.
The Renters (Reform) Bill also addresses other key areas of concern for tenants, including a ban on rent bidding wars and discrimination against those receiving benefits or with children. A clearer process for renting with pets will also be established.
“It is indeed not the prospect of giving renters these vital rights that is fuelling record homelessness, but the gross injustice of no-fault evictions,” stated Mairi MacRae of Shelter.
The move follows Scotland, which abolished no-fault evictions in 2017. Wales increased the notice period for similar evictions to six months in 2022, but currently still permits them. Northern Ireland also retains a system comparable to Section 21.
Justice Secretary Alex Chalk has stated the Ministry of Justice is “working…to look at how we can ensure that there are not undue delays” in eviction proceedings related to tenant misconduct. The government anticipates the new legislation will provide greater security for renters and encourage longer-term tenancies.
