Section 21 is being abolished under the UK Renters Reform changes, meaning landlords will no longer be able to evict tenants without giving a legal reason.
In 2026, Section 21 is not replaced by a new notice. Instead, it is replaced by an expanded Section 8 eviction system.
This means all evictions must now be “grounds-based”, where landlords must prove a valid legal reason to regain possession of a property.
Under the new rules, landlords will rely on updated Section 8 grounds such as:
- Rent arrears or persistent late payment
- Breach of tenancy agreement
- Anti-social behaviour
- Landlord or family member moving into the property
- Property being sold (subject to new legal conditions)
The key change is simple:
No-fault evictions are abolished. Section 21 is removed, and Section 8 becomes the only lawful route for possession.
This marks a major shift in UK housing law, moving from “no reason required” evictions to a system where every eviction must be justified in law and proven in court if disputed.
