Should Landlords Have Served Section 21 Notices Collectively in 2022?

In 2022, a suggestion was made for all private rented sector (PRS) landlords to serve Section 21 notices simultaneously, aiming to prompt government action on housing policy. This idea, though not widely adopted, raises important questions about landlord rights and the balance of power in the rental market, especially as landlords face increasing financial pressures and regulatory challenges.

Background: The Proposal to Serve Section 21 Notices Collectively

Rachel Reeves, speaking to MPs on the Treasury Select Committee, highlighted the narrowing gap between earnings from work and income from property. She also did not rule out the possibility of new property levies following the Budget, which increased tax burdens on landlords. Against this backdrop, a proposal emerged in 2022 on various landlord forums suggesting that every PRS landlord should serve a Section 21 notice on the same day, all with the same three-month expiry period.

The rationale behind this proposal was to create a significant impact that would compel the government to engage constructively with landlords rather than imposing further restrictions or taxes. The idea was that if approximately 4.7 million families—around 10 million people—were at risk of homelessness simultaneously, it would force policymakers to reconsider their approach to the private rental sector.

Why the Idea Was Not Widely Adopted

Despite the potential impact, many landlords dismissed the idea, possibly due to concerns about the practical implications and risks involved. Serving Section 21 notices en masse could have led to widespread displacement and legal complications, which may have deterred landlords from participating. As a result, the proposal did not materialise, and the sector continues to face challenges without the collective leverage that such an action might have provided.

Current Considerations for Landlords

For landlords who are struggling with the increasing demands of property management—whether due to high loan-to-equity ratios, mounting rent arrears, or the cumulative effect of regulatory changes—there remains a limited window to serve Section 21 notices. As of now, landlords have approximately five months left to issue these notices under current legislation.

This timeframe may prompt some landlords to reconsider their options, especially if they feel the financial or administrative burden of letting has become unsustainable. Serving a Section 21 notice can be a strategic decision to regain control of a property or to exit the market under certain conditions.

Implications for the Private Rented Sector

The discussion around Section 21 notices reflects broader tensions within the private rented sector. Landlords are navigating a complex landscape of tax changes, regulatory reforms, and tenant protections, which can affect profitability and operational viability. Collective actions, such as the proposed simultaneous serving of notices, highlight the potential power of coordinated landlord responses but also the risks involved.

For agents and property managers, understanding these dynamics is crucial in advising clients and managing portfolios effectively. The balance between protecting tenant rights and ensuring landlords can maintain sustainable businesses remains a key policy challenge.

Looking Ahead: Support and Resources for Landlords

In response to the evolving needs of landlords and the private rented sector, the Tenant and Landlord Association (TLA) is launching a new Trusted Partners Hub in the first quarter of 2026. This initiative will feature verified and approved service providers, including legal, trades, insurance, financial, mortgage, and tenant screening services, aimed at supporting landlords, tenants, and property management businesses.

Service providers interested in joining the Trusted Partners Hub are invited to register their interest at landlordassociation.org.uk/become-a-tla-service-partner/. This resource will help landlords access trusted professionals to navigate the complexities of property management and compliance.