Cordelia’s article was published in IFA Magazine, 11 September 2025, and can be seen here.
Cordelia Smith, Associate in our Residential Property team, explores the implications of the proposed abolition of ‘no-fault’ evictions under the Renters’ Rights Bill.
While the Bill aims to provide tenants with greater security, Cordelia explains that it is prompting many small-scale landlords to reconsider their investments. The uncertainty surrounding legislative changes combined with rising mortgage rates and potential new property taxes is making rental property ownership less attractive, particularly for landlords who own one or two properties as part of their retirement planning.
Cordelia notes that this shift is already having a visible impact on the market. Many landlords are choosing to sell their properties, often using Section 21 notices to regain possession before the law changes. While this may benefit first-time buyers by increasing the availability of smaller, more affordable homes, it also reduces the supply of rental properties exacerbating pressure on an already strained rental sector. Most buyers want vacant possession, meaning tenants are often evicted before a sale, further contributing to housing insecurity.
She concludes that altough the Renters’ Rights Bill is well-intentioned, it may have unintended consequences. Rather than improving stability for renters, it could lead to a short-term rise in evictions and a shrinking rental market. Cordelia emphasises the importance of monitoring the impact of these reforms and ensuring that lost rental stock is replaced to avoid worsening the challenges faced by both tenants and landlords.
Read the full article on theIFA Magazine website[external link].