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Section 21 and Section 8 notices - what's changing

England's Renters' Rights Act is ending Section 21 'no-fault' evictions. Landlords who need their property back will rely on Section 8 and specific legal grounds. This is general information, not legal advice - check GOV.UK for current rules and dates.

Section 21 (no-fault)

Historically let landlords end an assured shorthold tenancy without giving a reason. It is being abolished as tenancies become periodic under the new rules.

Section 8 (grounds-based)

Requires a legal ground for possession, for example serious rent arrears, the landlord or close family moving in, selling the property, or antisocial behaviour. Each ground has its own notice period and evidence requirements.

Evidence matters more than ever

  • A clear rent history showing arrears month by month
  • Copies of the gas safety certificate, EPC and How to Rent guide you gave the tenant
  • Deposit protection certificate and prescribed information
  • Records of every reminder and message you sent

Get advice

Possession claims are easy to get wrong. Speak to a solicitor or a landlord association before serving notice.

How Estateflow helps

Estateflow keeps your rent ledger, certificates, deposit records and message history (with delivery and read receipts) in one place, so the evidence is ready if you need it.

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