Landlords are being warned to review their position well before 30th April 2026, as major changes to possession rights take effect from 1st May 2026.
Victoria Skelton, Landlord and Tenant Specialist at Merritts Solicitors LLP on Yarm High Street, says the deadline is crucial.
“30th April is the last day a Section 21 notice can be served, and it should not be left to the final days,” she said.
“If a landlord thinks they may want their property back at any stage in the foreseeable future, they should consider their position now. Waiting could mean losing that option entirely or facing a much longer and more complex process.”
From 1st May, the key changes include:
• Abolition of Section 21 (no fault eviction notices).
• Possession claims limited to specific legal grounds.
• Higher evidential requirements.
• Increased tenant protections.
• Greater enforcement powers for local authorities.
• Financial penalties for non-compliance.
Despite the scale of the reforms, Victoria Skelton says landlords who operate professionally and follow the rules should not be overly concerned.
“Compliant landlords will be in a strong position under the new regime,” she said.
“Difficulties are more likely to arise where landlords are not compliant, as this may prevent them from recovering possession and could also expose them to significant fines.”
She advises landlords who are unsure about the new requirements to seek professional guidance and consider using experienced letting agents to help manage their properties.
“The rules are becoming more technical, and documentation is increasingly important. A good letting agent can help ensure everything is handled correctly and reduce risk.”
Victoria Skelton has already been working closely with landlords and local letting agents to prepare for the changes, including hosting specialist landlord events and conferences explaining the upcoming legislation.
A local letting agent who recently partnered with Merritts for a landlord event said:
“Victoria recently partnered with us to host a highly successful landlord event focused on the forthcoming Renters’ Reform legislation, where we combined our expertise to provide guidance and clarity on the upcoming changes. Her contribution was invaluable and extremely well received by attendees.”
Landlords who would like to review their position ahead of the deadline are encouraged to seek advice promptly.
Merritts Solicitors LLP is an independent firm that has been a face on the High Street for almost 60 years and offers a wide range of services, both personal and commercial.
PR piece by Lizzie Turner, Fresh Digital
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