The UK rental market is on the brink of a major shift. The long-debated abolition of Section 21—commonly referred to as the “no-fault eviction” process—is expected to transform how landlords manage tenancies and reclaim possession of their properties.

At NACCS, we understand that clarity and confidence are essential in an evolving legal landscape. Here, we break down what the changes mean and how landlords can adapt successfully.

What is Section 21 and Why Was It So Widely Used?

Section 21 of the Housing Act 1988 has long allowed landlords to regain possession of their rental property without needing to provide a reason, provided the appropriate notice period was given and the tenancy was periodic or at the end of a fixed term.

This process gave landlords essential flexibility to make decisions based on personal or strategic needs—whether to sell, renovate, move in, or restructure their portfolio. It also offered a faster, less contentious alternative to more complex legal proceedings.

Why Is Section 21 Being Abolished?

The government has committed to delivering a “fairer private rented sector,” arguing that Section 21 enables unfair or retaliatory evictions and undermines housing security for tenants. As part of the Renters Reform Bill, the abolition of Section 21 aims to:

• Improve tenant security and stability
• Encourage more transparent and accountable landlord practices
• Reduce housing stress and short-notice relocations

While these objectives may benefit renters, the change introduces new challenges for landlords, particularly those managing tenancies independently or without legal guidance.

What Will Replace It?

Once Section 21 is abolished, landlords must rely solely on Section 8 of the Housing Act to evict tenants. Unlike Section 21, this route requires landlords to demonstrate a specific legal ground, such as:

• Rent arrears
• Anti-social behaviour
• Breach of tenancy agreement
• Intention to sell or move into the property

Although the government has pledged to expand and streamline Section 8 grounds, this process is typically more complex, evidence-based, and time-consuming, often requiring court involvement.

The Practical Impact on Landlords

The removal of Section 21 means:

• Longer eviction timelines due to more complex procedures
• Greater administrative burden to gather evidence and build legal cases
• Increased scrutiny over how landlords manage tenancies
• Higher legal and operational costs if cases escalate

This places new pressure on landlords to strengthen compliance, improve tenant relations, and ensure all tenancy documentation is accurate and up to date.

Tenant Screening Will Become Even More Important

With limited options to recover possession quickly, landlords are likely to tighten tenant vetting procedures, placing more emphasis on:

• Employment and income verification
• Rental history and references
• Behavioural indicators and risk profiling

While this ensures more stable tenancies, it may also reduce access to housing for lower-income renters or those with less conventional profiles—prompting further social implications for the rental market.

What Does This Mean for the Rental Sector Long-Term?

The long-term effects of abolishing Section 21 could reshape the private rental landscape:

• Smaller landlords may exit the market, selling or consolidating assets due to increased regulation.
• Professionalisation of the sector is expected to accelerate, with more landlords turning to expert property management for support.
• Rental prices may rise, as the increased risk and cost of compliance are passed on to tenants.
• Tenancy durations may lengthen, creating a more stable (yet less flexible) environment.

How NACCS Supports Landlords in a Changing Market

At NACCS, we’re ahead of the curve. Our comprehensive property management service is designed to help landlords navigate these changes with peace of mind and long-term success.

We offer:

• ✅ Guaranteed Rent – Get paid every month, regardless of voids or arrears.|
• ✅ 0% Commission – Transparent pricing, no hidden fees.
• ✅ Expert Compliance Guidance – Stay legally protected, always.
• ✅ Tenant Sourcing & Vetting – Finding the right tenants with robust checks.
• ✅ End-to-End Management – From onboarding to maintenance and renewals.

We view reform not as a threat, but as an opportunity to raise standards, improve relationships, and future-proof your property investments.

Final Thoughts

The abolition of Section 21 is a landmark moment in UK rental legislation. While it poses challenges, it also opens the door for landlords to adopt a more strategic, professional approach to property management.

With NACCS as your trusted partner, you don’t just adapt to change—you thrive through it.

Want to discuss how we can support your portfolio?

Contact our team today for a free consultation and rental valuation.