James Cleverly, the Shadow Housing Secretary, has publicly shared that he recently received a Section 21 notice from his landlord, attributing this action to the unintended consequences of Labour’s Renters’ Rights Act. Speaking at a London Housing Conference, Cleverly criticised the legislation, warning it may harm tenants rather than protect them.

Section 21 Notice Sparks Debate

Mr Cleverly revealed that his landlord issued a Section 21 notice as they decided to sell the property he rents. He described his experience as one that is “replicated thousands of times across the country,” suggesting a widespread trend among landlords reacting to the new housing reforms.

He argued that the Renters’ Rights Act, introduced by the Labour government, is having the opposite effect of its intended purpose. Rather than safeguarding tenants, Cleverly claims the legislation is prompting landlords to withdraw properties from the rental market, thereby reducing the supply available to renters.

Criticism of Labour’s Approach

In an interview with PoliticsHome, Cleverly criticised Labour’s handling of the Renters’ Rights Act, stating: “The key bit of this is the arrogance with which Labour approached this process. They just refuse to listen to the points we’re making because it was we who were making those points.”

He went on to say that the people Labour claims to protect are actually being disadvantaged by the reforms. “Unfortunately, now the people who are suffering are the people who could and should have a decent supply of properties in the private rented sector, and they don’t,” he said.

“It didn’t have to be like this. If the Labour Party weren’t so arrogant and unwilling to listen, it wouldn’t be happening.”

Labour Responds to Criticism

A Labour source responded to Cleverly’s comments by highlighting the Conservative Party’s failure to ban no-fault evictions during their 14 years in government. The source told PoliticsHome: “The Shadow Housing Secretary will be furious when he finds out who is responsible for allowing no-fault evictions to continue.”

They added: “It’s his Conservative Party that failed to ban them during their 14 years in office. Labour in government is putting things right and ending this unfair practice to protect renters from suddenly being thrown out of their homes for no reason.”

The source also suggested that if Cleverly now agrees with Labour’s position, he should “cross the floor and join Labour.”

Impending Implementation of the Renters’ Rights Act

The Renters’ Rights Act is set to come into force on 1 May 2026. This legislation aims to reform the private rented sector by ending no-fault evictions and improving tenant protections. However, the debate between political parties highlights the complexities and challenges involved in balancing tenant rights with landlord interests.

What this means for landlords

Landlords should be aware that the introduction of the Renters’ Rights Act will change the legal landscape regarding evictions, particularly the use of Section 21 notices. The Act’s aim to end no-fault evictions means landlords may face increased restrictions when seeking to regain possession of their properties.

At the same time, the concerns raised by Mr Cleverly reflect a potential reduction in rental property availability if landlords choose to sell rather than continue letting under the new rules. This could impact rental supply and market dynamics, making it essential for landlords and agents to stay informed and adapt their strategies accordingly.

Source: Based on reporting from Property118

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