What is a Section 21 notice?

Section 21 was abolished on 1 May 2026 by the Renters' Rights Act 2025. This page reflects the current, post-reform position.

A Section 21 notice used to let a landlord in England end an Assured Shorthold Tenancy without giving a reason, once any fixed term had ended - commonly called a "no-fault eviction."

As of 1 May 2026, landlords can no longer serve new Section 21 notices. The last date a valid one could be served was 30 April 2026, and 31 July 2026 was the final deadline for landlords to start court proceedings on any notice served before the ban - after that date, old notices are void.

What replaced it: landlords must now use a Section 8 notice, which requires stating a specific legal ground (such as rent arrears, selling the property, or moving back in themselves) and following the correct notice period for that ground.

What this means for you: if you're renting today, a landlord cannot simply ask you to leave without a valid, stated reason under Section 8. If you receive any notice referencing "Section 21," it is very likely invalid - check with Shelter or Citizens Advice before assuming you need to leave.