What is Section 21?
A section 21 notice was the no fault route for a landlord in England to end an assured shorthold tenancy without giving a reason. It was abolished from 1 May 2026 by the Renters' Rights Act.
Why it matters to landlords
Landlords in England now need to rely on a ground under section 8, such as selling the property, moving in, or rent arrears, and evidence it.
That makes good records more important: proof the deposit was protected, certificates were served and rent was missed all matter when a possession claim is decided. The rules differ in Wales and Scotland.
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