Take the axe to Section 21
“This change is big – but it’s not the end of being a landlord.” - Greenway Team
Thanks for your patience — let’s fix this properly.
🏡 Section 21 to Be Scrapped in Labour’s First 100 Days – What Landlords Need to Know
If Labour win this week’s general election – and the polls suggest they will – they’ve promised to scrap Section 21 “no-fault” evictions within their first 100 days in office.
That’s a big change. Here's what it might mean for landlords and tenants alike – and what we still don’t know.
🚫 What is Section 21?
Section 21 of the Housing Act 1988 allows landlords in England to regain possession of a property without giving a reason, provided the fixed term has ended and correct notice is served.
For many landlords, it’s been a way to end tenancies cleanly – whether to sell, move in, or simply change tenants.
🔧 What’s Changing?
Labour has confirmed it would remove Section 21 completely. That means landlords would need to use Section 8, where a specific legal reason is required to end a tenancy – such as rent arrears, antisocial behaviour, or needing to move back into the property.
They’ve committed to doing this within their first 100 days in office, making it a priority policy if they win.
❓ What We Don’t Know Yet
Will courts be reformed first?
Section 8 is slower and can require a court hearing. Without more staff or investment, landlords could face long delays regaining possession.Will new grounds be introduced?
There’s talk of adding new or revised grounds under Section 8, but no firm detail yet.Will notice periods or procedures change?
Nothing official has been announced – but changes could come in quickly once the legislation is in motion.
📉 What This Could Mean for Landlords
If Section 21 is removed as planned:
Ending a tenancy could take longer
Section 8 is a more formal, often slower route than Section 21.You’ll need stronger paperwork
Tenancy agreements will need clear clauses – for example, if you intend to move back in at some point.Tenant selection becomes even more important
If removing a tenant is harder, referencing and due diligence at the start of a tenancy becomes vital.Rent guarantee products and legal cover may be more valuable
Delays in possession mean more risk – some landlords may look at extra protection.
🧭 What Can You Do Now?
Don’t panic. Nothing is changing yet. But:
Review your current tenancies
Are your tenancy agreements clear and up to date?Talk to your agent
At Greenway, the team are already planning for what this means – we’ll guide landlords through the changes, step by step.Keep an eye on updates
If Labour win this week, things may move quickly – we’ll break it all down in plain English, as always.
🔗 Useful Resources
👋 Final Word from Greenway
This change is big – but it’s not the end of being a landlord. It just means things will work differently, and good management will matter more than ever. If you’re a landlord with questions, feel free to get in touch with the team. We're here to help make sense of it all.
