Facing eviction can be overwhelming, especially if you're unsure of your rights. Many renters worry about whether their landlord can evict them for no reason. In this guide, we explain the legal eviction process in the UK and when a landlord can and cannot ask a tenant to leave.
Can a landlord legally evict you for no reason?
If a landlord uses a Section 21 notice, they can legally evict you without giving a reason. This is known as a ‘no-fault eviction’. However, while landlords don't always need to provide a reason for eviction, they must serve the correct notice and comply with the law. In the UK, landlords cannot evict tenants without following the correct legal process.
What is a Section 21 notice?
A Section 21 notice is a legal way for landlords in England and Wales to end an assured shorthold tenancy (AST) without needing to give a reason. This allows them to regain possession of their property, as long as they follow the correct legal process.
Landlords must serve the notice properly and give tenants the required notice period. While they don’t need to provide a specific reason for eviction, they must comply with the law, including deposit protection and safety regulations.
When can a landlord use one?
A landlord can issue a Section 21 notice if:
The tenancy is an assured shorthold tenancy (AST).
The fixed-term tenancy has ended, or the tenancy has become a periodic agreement (renews ongoing).
The landlord provides at least two months' notice in writing.
The landlord has complied with legal requirements. This includes protecting the tenant’s deposit and providing essential documents such as an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), gas safety certificate, and the government’s 'How to Rent' guide.
When can't a landlord can use one?
A Section 21 notice can’t be used if:
The fixed-term tenancy is still active, unless there is a break clause.
They haven’t protected the tenant’s deposit or provided essential documents.
The property is in poor condition, and the local council has issued an improvement notice.
The landlord has failed to carry out necessary repairs, making the property unsafe or unfit to live in.
Will no-fault evictions be banned?
The UK government has announced plans to ban Section 21 no-fault evictions as part of the Renters’ Rights Bill. This change aims to give tenants greater security by preventing landlords from evicting them without a valid reason.
If the ban comes into effect, landlords will only be able to evict tenants using Section 8 notices, which require a specific legal reason - such as unpaid rent, property damage, or breach of tenancy terms. The changes are expected to take effect later in 2025, so tenants should stay informed about updates to rental laws.
💡 Editor’s insight: "Until the Renters’ Rights Bill is officially implemented, Section 21 evictions are still legal. In fact, data from The Big Issue shows that Section 21 evictions rose by 20% in 2024 alone."
Is it the same for council and housing association tenants?
Typically, council and housing association tenants have stronger protections than private renters. In most cases, your landlord must have a legal reason to evict you. If you have a secure or assured tenancy - which is common for council and housing association tenants - you have greater protection against eviction, meaning your landlord can’t typically ask you to leave without a valid reason.
Secure tenants (council housing): Landlords must provide a valid reason and get a court order before eviction. Section 21 notices do not apply.
Assured tenants (housing associations): Tenants have much stronger protections. Landlords must use Section 8 notices or prove a breach of the tenancy agreement.
Assured shorthold tenants (some housing associations): These tenants have similar rights to private renters. They can be evicted using a Section 21 notice, although this is less common.
What to do if your landlord asks you to leave
If your landlord asks you to leave, follow these steps:
Check the validity of the notice: Make sure the notice meets legal requirements and provides the correct amount of notice.
Understand your rights: If the landlord hasn't followed the correct procedure, the notice may be invalid.
Seek legal advice: Contact Citizens Advice, Shelter, or a legal professional for guidance.
Communicate with your landlord: If possible, discuss alternative solutions. You might be able to negotiate a longer notice period.
Find alternative housing: If the eviction is valid, start looking for a new place to live and check if you are eligible for council housing support.
Do not leave before the notice period ends: You’re not legally required to move out until the notice period expires. The landlord may get a court order.
If in doubt, seek legal support from our expert eviction solicitor. They can help guide you on your options and if the eviction is legally sound.
FAQ
Can a landlord kick you out for no reason?
A landlord can ask you to leave without providing a reason if they use a Section 21 notice. But they need to follow the legal process, including giving proper notice and meeting legal requirements.
Can a tenant challenge a Section 21 eviction?
Yes, tenants can challenge a Section 21 notice if it is invalid, such as if the landlord has not protected the deposit or provided the required documents.
How long does a Section 21 eviction take?
It can take at least two months from the date of the notice. If the tenant doesn't leave, the landlord must apply for a possession order, which can extend the process further. You can learn more in our guide to how long does it take to evict a tenant.
What happens if a tenant refuses to leave after a Section 21 notice?
If the tenant remains after the notice period, the landlord must go to court to get a possession order. If granted and the tenant still refuses to leave, landlords may involve bailiffs. You can learn more in our guide to what happens when a tenant doesn’t leave.
Final thoughts
Right now, landlords in the UK can still use a Section 21 notice to evict tenants without giving a reason, but they must follow strict legal rules. With upcoming changes to rental laws, this option may soon be removed, offering tenants more security in the future.
If you receive an eviction notice, it’s important to check if it’s valid and understand your legal rights. If you're unsure, seeking legal advice can help you protect yourself and take the right steps.
💡 Need expert guidance? Contact us for a free, fixed-fee quote and find out how our landlord and tenant solicitors can assist you.
References
Assured shorthold tenancies (AST) by Shelter
How to rent by Gov.UK
Help from your council if you're homeless or at risk of homelessness by Gov.UK
Disclaimer: This article only provides general information and does not constitute professional advice. For any specific questions, consult a qualified legal professional.
