Landlord Fined for Serving Illegal Section 21 Notice

From 1 May 2026, the Renters' Rights Act 2025 abolished 'no fault' evictions under Section 21 of the Housing Act 1988, meaning that landlords now have to have valid statutory grounds for obtaining possession of a property. The first enforcement action under the 2025 Act was recently taken against a landlord for serving a Section 21 notice after they were abolished.

After the landlord issued the Section 21 notice, the local authority's Private Sector Housing Team contacted them to explain the changes in the law and advise them that the notice was invalid. They were also provided with information about the correct legal routes available should they still wish to seek possession of the property.

A notice setting out the proposed fine was issued, giving the landlord an opportunity to respond before the penalty was confirmed. The landlord was fined £3,060, which included a 15 per cent discount because payment was made within 28 days.

The local authority said that its aim was to help landlords understand their responsibilities and comply with the law, but that it would take appropriate enforcement action where breaches of housing legislation were identified.

Guidance for landlords on the changes introduced by the Act can be found on the government's website.