A landmark legal transformation is set to reshape the private rental sector in England, with the Labour government's Renters' Rights Act scheduled to take full effect on 1 May 2026.
The End of Section 21 Evictions
From this date, the controversial Section 21 'no-fault' evictions will be officially abolished. This practice has allowed landlords to remove tenants without providing a reason, a system that has been heavily criticised for creating insecurity for millions. The new legislation aims to provide greater stability for an estimated 11 million private renters across the country.
While protecting tenants from arbitrary eviction, the law also acknowledges the needs of property owners. It establishes stronger, legally valid grounds for landlords to reclaim their properties when necessary, such as for sale or moving in family members, aiming to create a fairer system for both parties.
Government and Campaigner Reactions
Housing Secretary Steve Reed heralded the change, stating the government is "calling time on no fault evictions and rogue landlords." He emphasised that everyone deserves the peace of mind that comes with a secure home, adding, "We're now on a countdown of just months to that law coming in – so good landlords can get ready and bad landlords should clean up their act."
The announcement has been met with widespread approval from housing advocacy groups. Ben Twomey, Chief Executive of Generation Rent, celebrated the law as a "vital step towards re-balancing power between renters and landlords." He highlighted that for decades, the threat of Section 21 has prevented tenants from raising complaints about their living conditions, leaving many in fear of homelessness.
A Long-Awaited Victory for Renters
Tom Darling, Director of the Renters' Reform Coalition—an alliance including Shelter, Generation Rent, and Citizens Advice—described the confirmation of the 1st May implementation date as "huge news for England's 12 million renters." He credited years of tireless campaigning by the renter movement for this achievement.
Looking ahead, campaigners are urging the government to swiftly implement the full suite of measures within the Renters' Rights Act. This includes the establishment of a Private Rented Sector Database and the introduction of Awaab's Law, designed to ensure homes are safe and free from health hazards.
Sarah Elliott, Chief Executive of Shelter, and Ella Nuttall, Policy and Research Manager at Centrepoint, both underscored the legislation's potential to reduce homelessness. Nuttall noted that the reform creates a "fairer, more secure system for all," particularly benefiting young people who have been disproportionately affected by the insecure rental market.
