Section 21 Evictions
Merton Council is discussing the impact of the Renters' Rights Act, which abolished Section 21 evictions, on housing availability and temporary accommodation.
Merton Council's Overview and Scrutiny Committee discussed the anticipated impact of the Renters' Rights Act on the borough's housing in March 2026. Concerns were raised that some landlords might exit the private rental market in response to the new legislation, potentially reducing available properties. The council anticipates the Act will reduce the need for temporary accommodation placements.
The Renters' Rights Act 2025, which abolished Section 21 evictions, came into force in May 2026. Section 21 evictions previously allowed landlords to end assured shorthold tenancies without providing a reason. Merton Council is currently projecting a nearly £7 million overspend on temporary accommodation for the 2024/25 financial year.
Key facts
- Merton Council's Overview and Scrutiny Committee discussed the anticipated impact of the Renters' Rights Act in March 2026. Source 1 Source 2
- The Renters' Rights Act 2025 abolished Section 21 notices. Source
- Merton Council anticipates the Renters' Rights Act will reduce the need for temporary accommodation placements. Source
- Merton Council projects a nearly £7 million overspend on temporary accommodation for the 2024/25 financial year. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on, with background from Wikipedia. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 30 September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.