The number of landlords being helped with tenant evictions, rent arrears recovery and tenant disputes has soared, new data suggests.

The figures from Landlord Action come just days before the Renters’ Rights Act is introduced on 1st May.

The change in rental laws includes the abolition of the so-called ‘no-fault’ section 21 evictions.

Landlord Action’s founder Paul Shamplina claimed landlords were taking action and evicting tenants while they still can – ahead of the change in the law as landlords are “not confident in what replaces it’.

He explains that faced with a lack of flexibility and the prospect of more complex and protracted possession routes, landlords are acting now while existing options remain available.

Increased landlord activity

Landlord Action, which helps landlords with tenant evictions and disputes, says instructions have risen 60% compared to March a year ago, while enquiries were up 75% during the same period.

It claims that the increase reflects what many had predicted would happen ahead of the new law being introduced, with more landlords seeking possession of their properties.

Section 21

Shamplina says: “This is exactly what we said would happen. As Section 21 is phased out, landlords are acting now while they still have certainty, because many are not confident in what replaces it.

“From the conversations I have been having with landlords across the country, there is still a great deal of confusion about how possession will work in practice, alongside growing concern about compliance, court delays, rent arrears and rising mortgage costs.

“That combination is pushing landlords into making decisions earlier than they otherwise would.”

As Section 21 is phased out, landlords are acting now while they still have certainty, because many are not confident in what replaces it.”

He went on to suggest that some landlords are choosing to exit the sector altogether, while others are regaining possession now rather than risk being unable to do so later.

He adds: “While possession activity will inevitably slow once these changes come into force, much of the damage will already have been done.

“Good landlords leaving the market and tenants losing homes in circumstances where, previously, no action would have been taken.”