Housing Minister Matthew Pennycook has rejected claims of a surge in Section 21 evictions ahead of the Renters’ Rights Act, despite industry figures reporting a sharp rise.

Responding to a parliamentary question from Lib Dem MP Edward Morello, he said the Government “does not expect a spike” in no-fault eviction notices before the reforms take effect from 1st May, 2026.

He cited Ministry of Justice data that shows a 17% fall in Section 21 accelerated possession claims in England between October and December 2025 compared with the same period a year earlier.

Those figures, however, relate to cases reaching court, while most of the other industry data tracks notices issued earlier in the process.

Higher instructions

Figures from Landlord Action show there was a 43% increase in Section 21 instructions in the first quarter of 2026, with overall landlord possession instructions rising 60% year-on-year in March – its highest monthly spike on record.

Its founder, Paul Shamplina (main picture), said: “The Government is in total denial… The surge in Section 21s is going to go through the roof.”

The clash comes just days before Section 21 is due to be abolished under the Renters’ Rights Act, forcing landlords to rely on Section 8 grounds and court hearings to regain possession.

Labour ministers must now explain to renters why their actions have triggered a surge in evictions.”

Housing Secretary Steve Reed has previously acknowledged – in The Times – a recent rise in no-fault evictions.

Shadow Housing Secretary Sir James Cleverly, the Shadow Housing Secretary, told The Telegraph: “Ministers were warned this would happen, but they ploughed on regardless.

“We are now seeing a clear spike in Section 21 notices as landlords act ahead of the Renters’ Rights Act coming into force. This is exactly the consequence the Government dismissed.

“Labour ministers must now explain to renters why their actions have triggered a surge in evictions.”