What are the legal reasons for a landlord to end a tenancy according to the Renters' Rights Bill?

The Renters' Rights Bill 2025 introduces major changes to tenancy law, replacing Section 21 “no-fault” evictions with a set of clearly defined legal grounds for regaining possession of a property. Landlords must now provide a valid reason—such as rent arrears, property sale, or tenant misconduct—when seeking to end a tenancy. These reforms aim to improve clarity and fairness while protecting landlords’ ability to manage their properties effectively.

What this means for Landlords

These grounds ensure that tenants have greater security while allowing landlords to regain possession of their property when necessary. Do you have any other questions about the Bill or how it might affect you?

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How Landlords Can Legally End a Tenancy Agreement in Compliance with the Renters' Rights Bill

Rent Arrears

Landlords can seek possession if a tenant is significantly behind on rent payments.
The Bill defines this as at least two months of unpaid rent at the time of the court hearing. However, the court may consider whether the arrears are persistent or a one-off issue, and whether the tenant is making efforts to repay.

Breach of Tenancy Agreement

If a tenant violates key terms of the tenancy agreement—such as causing serious damage, subletting without permission, or keeping prohibited pets—the landlord can apply for eviction.
Minor breaches may not be sufficient unless they are repeated or cause substantial disruption.

Landlord Selling the Property

A landlord can regain possession if they intend to sell the property. However, they must provide evidence of genuine intent, such as a listing with an estate agent or a signed agreement with a buyer.
The tenant must be given at least two months’ notice, and this ground cannot be used within the first six months of a tenancy.

Landlord or Family Member Moving In

Eviction is permitted if the landlord or a close family member (e.g., spouse, parent, child) needs to move into the property as their primary residence.
This ground also requires two months’ notice and cannot be used within the first six months of the tenancy.
The landlord must not re-let the property for at least three months after possession is granted.

Property Redevelopment

If the landlord plans major renovations that cannot reasonably be carried out with the tenant in place, such as structural work or conversion - the tenant can be evicted.
The landlord must provide detailed plans and may need to show planning permission or contractor agreements.
Cosmetic upgrades do not qualify.

Anti-Social Behaviour

Eviction can be sought if the tenant engages in anti-social behaviour, such as harassment, intimidation, drug use, or persistent noise complaints.
The behaviour must be serious or repeated, and landlords are encouraged to keep records or evidence (e.g., police reports, neighbour complaints) to support their case.

These reforms aim to balance tenant security with landlord rights, ensuring that evictions are only used when justified and necessary. The abolition of Section 21 “no-fault” evictions means landlords must now rely on these clear, evidence-based grounds to evict a tenant.

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