Evictions in 2026: Is the Renters’ Rights Act to Blame?
Recent headlines have painted a picture of landlords rushing to evict tenants ahead of the Renters’ Rights Act—but the reality, looks different. New research suggests that just 1 in 10 landlords (9%) who are actively asking tenants to leave are doing so directly because of the upcoming legislative changes. So, what is happening behind the scenes?
📊 A Narrative Worth Questioning
In recent months, the Renters’ Rights Act has been positioned as a major turning point for landlords, with many predicting a wave of exits from the sector. While there is certainly some truth in that sentiment, the data tells a more balanced story.
The findings indicate that, although the legislation is influencing sentiment, it is not the leading cause of landlords regaining possession of their properties. Instead, a combination of financial pressures, market conditions, and long-term strategic decisions appears to be playing a far greater role.
For buyers, sellers, landlords, and tenants alike, this distinction is important. It highlights that the property market is being shaped by broader economic forces—not just policy changes.
🏡 The Leading Reason: Landlords Choosing to Sell
By far the most common reason tenants are being asked to leave is simple: the landlord intends to sell the property.
According to the research, 43% of tenants report that their landlord cited plans to sell as the main reason for ending the tenancy.
From an estate agent’s perspective, this aligns closely with what we’re seeing across the market. Many landlords are reassessing their portfolios in light of:
- Higher mortgage rates
- Increased maintenance and compliance costs
- Changes in tax treatment
- A more regulated rental environment
For some, the decision is not reactive—but strategic. Selling in the current market can allow landlords to release equity, reduce risk, and reposition their investments elsewhere.
💬 A Lack of Clarity in the Rental Sector
Interestingly, the data also reveals a notable lack of transparency in some cases.
- 23% of tenants say they were given an alternative reason
- Another 23% report no reason at all
This raises important questions about communication within the sector. At a time when the industry is under increasing scrutiny, clear and open dialogue between landlords and tenants has never been more important.
For tenants, uncertainty can be unsettling. For landlords, clarity can help maintain trust and avoid unnecessary disputes.
🏠 Returning Home: A Traditional Motivation
Not all possession claims are financially driven. Around 14% of tenants report that their landlord intends to move back into the property.
This is a more traditional and often understandable reason—frequently linked to:
- Changes in personal circumstances
- Relocation plans
- Family needs
While less headline-grabbing, it remains a consistent feature of the rental market and reflects the dual role many properties play as both investments and homes.
📉 The Renters’ Rights Act: A Smaller Piece of the Puzzle
Despite dominating industry discussion, the Renters’ Rights Act is directly cited in just 9% of eviction cases in England.
This suggests that while the legislation is influential, it is not the primary trigger for most landlords’ decisions.
From a property professional’s standpoint, this reinforces an important point:
market fundamentals still matter more than policy headlines.
Landlords are, above all, responding to:
- Profitability
- Risk
- Long-term viability
Legislation may shape the environment—but it rarely acts alone.
💷 Rental Prices: A Continuing Upward Trend
Alongside these findings, there are early indications of ongoing rental growth.
Since the Renters’ Rights Act received Royal Assent in October 2025, around 30% of tenants who have remained in their current homes have experienced rent increases.
While it’s difficult to determine whether this is directly linked to the legislation or part of a broader trend, it does reflect continued pressure within the rental market—particularly where demand continues to outstrip supply.
For tenants, this underscores the importance of planning ahead. For landlords, it highlights the delicate balance between maintaining yields and remaining competitive.
🔮 A Market in Transition
The UK rental market is undoubtedly evolving.
The introduction of the Renters’ Rights Act—alongside wider economic shifts—marks a significant change in how the sector operates. Key reforms, such as:
- The end of Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions
- Greater tenant security
- Restrictions on upfront rent demands are set to reshape the landlord-tenant relationship over the coming years.
However, as the data shows, these changes are part of a bigger picture—not the whole story.
🤝 Our Perspective as Estate Agents
From our experience on the ground, the current market is best described as transitional rather than turbulent.
Landlords are not exiting en masse—but they are becoming more selective and strategic. Tenants are not without options—but they are navigating a more competitive and evolving landscape.
What remains constant is the importance of:
- Realistic expectations
- Clear communication
- Expert guidance
Whether you’re a landlord considering your next move, a tenant planning ahead, or a buyer exploring new opportunities, understanding the why behind market trends is key.
📍 Final Thoughts
While the Renters’ Rights Act continues to dominate conversation, the reality is that landlord decisions are still being driven primarily by economics, not legislation alone.
Selling properties, managing rising costs, and adapting to changing market dynamics are at the heart of today’s rental landscape.
For those navigating the UK property market, the message is clear:
look beyond the headlines and focus on the fundamentals.
If you want an award winning team to help you navigate this, then get in contact on 0121 681 6327.