Section 21 Is Ending—Here’s How Agents Can Stay Legally Prepared.
- keirafry2
- Oct 14
- 2 min read
📑 Section 21 Is Ending—Here’s How Letting Agents Can Stay Ahead with Section 8
The UK rental market is on the verge of a major shake-up. With the Renters Reform Bill expected to pass this year, one of the most significant changes in decades is about to take effect: the end of Section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions. Once this legislation is in place, landlords and agents will need to rely on specific legal grounds to regain possession of a property—making Section 8 the new standard.
🔄 What’s Changing?
Currently, Section 21 allows landlords to evict tenants with two months’ notice after a fixed term, without giving a reason. That’s about to change.
Under the new rules:
• All Assured Shorthold Tenancies (ASTs) will automatically become rolling periodic agreements, with no fixed end date.
• Evictions will require legally defined grounds under Section 8, supported by clear evidence.
This means tenancies will likely last longer, and agents will need to be more diligent in how they manage and document each property.
⚖️ Section 8: Evidence Is Everything
Section 8 outlines specific reasons a landlord can reclaim their property—some mandatory, others discretionary. For example:
• Ground 13: Tenant has caused damage through neglect or misuse.
• Ground 15: Tenant has damaged furnishings or allowed others to do so, such as through unauthorised subletting.
These cases aren’t always straightforward. Agents must be prepared to present solid evidence to support any claim—especially when relying on discretionary grounds.
📸 Why Inventories Are Now Essential
With Section 21 gone, the burden of proof shifts heavily onto landlords and agents. A detailed, time-stamped inventory becomes a critical tool for:
• Recording the property’s condition at move-in.
• Tracking changes through regular inspections.
• Documenting breaches of the tenancy agreement.
• Supporting legal claims under Section 8.
Without this documentation, possession claims can fall apart in court—especially when tenants dispute the grounds. That’s why many professionals are turning to digital inventory platforms like Inventory Hive, which offer photographic reports and a clear audit trail.
🛡️ Raising the Bar for Property Management
The end of ‘no-fault’ evictions levels the playing field for tenants—but it also raises expectations for agents. A casual, paper-based approach won’t cut it anymore. To protect landlords’ investments and stay compliant, agents must adopt evidence-led, tech-enabled systems that support transparency and legal resilience.
📞 Want to stay compliant and protect your portfolio?
Reach out today by visiting our website (linked in the image caption) or calling 01279 295590 to speak with our team, or you can email us on info@cityandcountrywide.com.
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