Housing Minister Matthew Pennycook has disputed claims of a surge in Section 21 evictions ahead of the Renters’ Rights Act implementation, despite industry data showing significant increases in possession instructions.
Responding to a parliamentary question from Liberal Democrat MP Edward Morello, Pennycook stated the Government “does not expect a spike” in no-fault eviction notices before the reforms take effect on 1st May 2026.
The minister cited Ministry of Justice data showing a 17% fall in Section 21 accelerated possession claims in England between October and December 2025 compared with the same period in 2024. However, these figures relate to cases reaching court, whilst industry data tracks notices issued earlier in the process.
Industry data shows contrasting trend
Figures from Landlord Action indicate a 43% increase in Section 21 instructions in the first quarter of 2026, with overall landlord possession instructions rising 60% year-on-year in March, representing its highest monthly increase on record.
Paul Shamplina, founder of Landlord Action, said: “The Government is in total denial… The surge in Section 21s is going to go through the roof.”
The disagreement comes days before Section 21 is abolished under the Renters’ Rights Act, requiring landlords to rely on Section 8 grounds and court hearings to regain possession of properties.
Political response
Housing Secretary Steve Reed has previously acknowledged in The Times a recent rise in no-fault evictions. Shadow Housing Secretary Sir James Cleverly told The Telegraph: “Ministers were warned this would happen, but they ploughed on regardless.”
He added: “We are now seeing a clear spike in Section 21 notices as landlords act ahead of the Renters’ Rights Act coming into force. This is exactly the consequence the Government dismissed.”
The dispute highlights broader challenges facing Labour’s housing policy agenda, as the rental sector adjusts to regulatory changes. The timing discrepancy between court filings and initial notices issued may explain the differing interpretations of eviction trends.
The rental reforms represent a significant shift in landlord-tenant relations, with implications for both the buy-to-let sector and rental supply. The divergence between government and industry data raises questions about how eviction trends are measured and reported as the sector transitions to the new regulatory framework.
