A survey by buy-to-let lender Landbay reveals that 75.4% of landlords are significantly concerned about the proposed abolition of Section 21 “no-fault” evictions, which allows landlords to evict tenants without providing a reason once a fixed-term Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST) expires. Landlords believe this change will severely limit their ability to manage their properties and remove problematic tenants, which many view as critical for maintaining control of their investments.

The abolition of Section 21 is a key part of the government’s Renters’ Rights Bill, which aims to provide tenants with greater security by ending arbitrary evictions. However, many landlords worry that relying solely on Section 8 grounds (eviction for specific reasons such as rent arrears or property damage) could overwhelm an already burdened court system, causing significant delays in regaining control of their properties. Landlords are skeptical about the court system’s capacity to handle the increased volume of possession claims, as expressed by multiple respondents in the survey.

Rob Stanton, sales and distribution director at Landbay, also stressed the importance of finding a fair balance in the legislation, to avoid creating a situation that negatively impacts both landlords and tenants.