What is Section 21 (a no-fault eviction)?
Section 21 was the rule that let landlords in England evict tenants without giving a reason — a 'no-fault' eviction. It was abolished by the Renters' Rights Act 2025.
How it worked
Under Section 21 of the Housing Act 1988, a landlord could end an assured shorthold tenancy with two months' notice and no reason, once any fixed term had ended. Tenant groups argued it left renters insecure; landlords valued it as a quick way to regain a property.
Why it matters now
The Renters' Rights Act 2025 abolished Section 21 in England, moving all tenancies to periodic (rolling) terms and requiring landlords to use specified legal grounds to evict. It is one of the biggest changes to renting in a generation.
Plain-English definition for general information only — not financial, legal or tax advice. Rates are 2025/26 unless stated.