No More “No Fault” Evictions
The UK government is introducing major changes to renting laws through the Renters’ Rights Act 2025, which will come into force in 1st May 2026. These changes will directly affect students renting houses.
What’s changing with the abolition of Section 21?
At present, landlords can use a Section 21 of the Housing Act to evict tenants after a fixed term ends. This is often called a “no fault” eviction, and it gives tenants two months to find somewhere else to live.
Once the Renters’ Rights Act is enacted, Section 21 will be abolished!
How will the abolition of Section 21 affect renters?
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Stricter rules for eviction: Landlords will only be able to evict tenants under specific legal grounds (using Section 8 of the Housing Act). In the future you may see landlords using Ground 4A, a specific ground under Section 8 they can use when renting to groups of students in HMO properties with 3 beds or more. The conditions on which this can be used are much tighter.
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More security: You’ll have greater protection and stability in your home — one less thing to worry about during your studies.
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Important to note: If you break the terms of your contract, such as failing to pay rent, you can still be evicted.
Why does it matter for students?
This change gives student renters more security and peace of mind. You’ll be able to challenge poor housing conditions without the fear of eviction. It also sees the introduction of a Assured Tenancies that give students the ability to give two months' notice to leave at any time.
Anything else I should know?
Landlords can still serve Section 21 notices up to the end of April 2026.