Recent research suggests that landlord repossessions are on the rise across England and Wales, with an average increase of 6.8%. This trend is not uniform, with some local authorities seeing a dramatic climb of up to 2,540%.

Experts attribute this surge to landlords preparing for the upcoming Renters’ Rights Bill, which is set to abolish Section 21 “no-fault” evictions.*

What the Numbers Show

• Regional Increases: London recorded a 19.5% rise, while the West Midlands was up 13.4%.
• Local Hotspots: The most dramatic increases were seen in specific local authorities, including Thurrock (2,540% increase) and Basildon (889% increase).
• Regional Decreases: Conversely, Wales, the South East, and the South West saw a decline in repossessions.

Why are landlords acting now?

The upcoming Renters’ Rights Bill will remove a key mechanism for landlords to regain possession of their property without giving a reason. Landlords are using the current Section 21 process to take control of their assets while they still can.

According to Sam Humphreys, an expert on agency acquisitions, this isn’t about landlords leaving the market. Instead, it’s about them protecting their investments in anticipation of a new regulatory landscape that may make it harder to operate.

Humphreys warns that if the Bill makes it more difficult for landlords to manage their properties, it could reduce the supply of rental homes at a time when tenant demand is at an all-time high.