The government has confirmed that Section 21 changes in Tamworth and across England are coming and they’re significant. Under the Renters’ Rights Act, expected to be implemented in 2026, landlords will lose the ability to evict tenants using ‘no fault’ grounds.
Whether you’re managing a single buy-to-let in Glascote or a portfolio across Fazeley, now’s the time to understand the new rules and take practical steps to stay protected.
Let’s explore what the Section 21 changes in Tamworth mean for landlords and how you can confidently manage your properties under the new law.
What is Section 21 and why is it being scrapped?
Section 21 notices have been used by landlords to end assured shorthold tenancies without needing to give a reason. It’s been a flexible tool for situations such as selling up or regaining the property for personal use.
However, under the Renters’ Rights Act, Section 21 will be abolished. In Tamworth, this means landlords will only be able to evict tenants using a Section 8 and only where a specific legal ground applies.
These include:
- Wanting to sell the property
- Moving in yourself or housing close family
- Rent arrears
- Anti-social behaviour or serious tenancy breaches
What this means for Tamworth landlords:
You’ll need a clear, justifiable reason to regain possession and evidence to support it. The process may take longer and require a more detailed approach.
Section 21 changes in Tamworth: how your tenancy agreements will change
One of the biggest effects of the Section 21 changes in Tamworth is the shift to periodic tenancies. That means:
- No more fixed-term contracts
- Tenancies automatically renew monthly
- Tenants can leave with two months’ notice
- Landlords can only end the tenancy under Section 8 grounds
This model is designed to give tenants more flexibility and security. But it does mean less predictability for landlords.
Landlord advice in Tamworth:
You’ll need to plan for changes in rental income, potential shorter notice periods, and new timings for property turnover. Staying on top of compliance will also be essential.
What else is included in the Renters’ Rights Act?
Alongside the end of no-fault evictions, the Renters’ Rights Act introduces several other changes that affect how landlords in Tamworth operate.
A digital property portal for all landlords
A new online portal will be introduced to:
- List your rental properties
- Display compliance documents (EPCs, gas and electrical safety, licensing)
- Show tenants that you’re meeting legal standards
Tamworth landlords:
Start organising your property documentation now. Having everything ready to upload will save time and help avoid penalties when registration becomes mandatory.
Homes must meet the Decent Homes Standard
This new rule will ensure that all rental properties:
- Are in a reasonable state of repair
- Have modern facilities
- Provide a safe, healthy living environment
What to do now:
Book a property inspection and create a maintenance plan. Tackling repairs early avoids last-minute costs and keeps your tenants happier too.
What is a reasonable reason for a landlord to refuse a tenant having a pet?
- Landlords must consider all pet requests individually — there’s no one-size-fits-all rule
- With so much variety in landlords, tenants, and properties, it’s not practical to have strict legislation for every scenario
- A landlord can reasonably refuse a request if their superior landlord (e.g. a freeholder or head leaseholder) does not allow pets
- Guidance will be made available to help both landlords and tenants make informed decisions
What happens if a pet damages a property?
- Tenants pay a tenancy deposit which can be used to cover any damage, including pet-related issues
- In the rare event the damage costs more than the deposit, landlords can pursue the tenant for the extra costs
- This would be done through the courts, following the standard legal process in the rental sector
A new Ombudsman will handle disputes
All landlords including self-managing ones must register with a new redress scheme. The Ombudsman will:
- Help tenants resolve disputes
- Offer binding decisions
- Avoid costly and lengthy court action
Keeping accurate records of inspections, communications, and agreements will help protect you if a dispute arises.
Rent increases will need to follow a fair process
Rent reviews must:
- Be limited to once a year
- Give tenants at least two months’ notice via a Section 13 Notice
- Reflect local market values
If a tenant disagrees, they can appeal through a tribunal.
Tamworth market insight:
With strong demand and limited supply, rents are rising but increases must still be reasonable. Fair, clear communication is the best approach.
Local authorities will gain stronger enforcement powers
Tamworth Borough Council will have greater ability to:
- Fine landlords who break the rules
- Force repairs or improvements
- Ban repeat offenders
This is designed to protect tenants but it’s more important than ever to ensure you’re staying on the right side of the law.
How to prepare for Section 21 changes in Tamworth
Being proactive will make the transition much smoother. Here’s how to stay ahead of the new eviction rules in Tamworth and the rest of the Renters’ Rights Act:
- Update your tenancy agreements
Move away from fixed-term contracts and adapt your terms for a periodic structure. - Get your compliance documents in order
Check your EPC, gas safety, EICR and deposit registration are valid and accessible. - Plan for rent reviews
Set a fair process and prepare to justify increases based on local market trends. - Book a property condition check
Ensure you meet (or exceed) the Decent Homes Standard before inspections begin. - Consider insurance and legal support
With no-fault evictions being removed and stricter rules around regaining possession, it’s more important than ever to have the right protection in place. - Work with local lettings experts
At Hunters Tamworth, we stay ahead of legislation, so you don’t have to.
Section 21 changes in Tamworth: a challenge or an opportunity?
While these changes may seem like added pressure, they can also work in your favour. Tenants will stay longer in good properties, turnover costs will reduce, and trusted landlords will find it easier to stand out from the crowd.
If you have reliable tenants, good documentation, and expert support, these reforms shouldn’t be a threat, they’re simply a new way of doing business.
Let Hunters Tamworth help you stay protected
Navigating the Section 21 changes in Tamworth and the wider Renters’ Rights Act doesn’t have to be stressful. At Hunters Tamworth, we work closely with landlords to:
- Review existing tenancy agreements
- Provide tailored eviction advice
- Ensure full compliance with current and future legislation
- Maximise yields and reduce voids
Whether you’re a first-time landlord or a seasoned investor, we’ll help you future-proof your lettings strategy and keep your rental income secure.
Book your free landlord consultation.
