What you need to know about Section 21 notices
You might start hearing about something called a Section 21 notice - or you might even receive one yourself.
At the moment, landlords across the UK are being advised by the National Residential Landlords Association to send out Section 21 notices before 1 May, while they are still legal. This is because the new Renters' Rights Act is expected to change how evictions work.
This means more students in private rented housing might start seeing these notices soon.
If you get one, it’s completely normal to feel worried. These documents look formal and can seem like you’re being told to leave immediately.
But here’s the important part:
What a Section 21 notice actually is
A Section 21 is often called a “no‑fault eviction”. This means:
- You haven’t done anything wrong.
- Your landlord doesn’t need to give a reason.
- It’s a legal process landlords can currently use to take back the property.
What it doesn’t mean
Getting a Section 21 notice does not mean you have to move out straight away.
It is not an instant eviction.
Your landlord still has to follow a full legal process. This includes going to court if you don’t leave by the date on the notice.
This whole process takes time, so you have space to understand what’s happening and plan your next steps.
Also important:
If your landlord doesn’t start the court process by 31 July, the notice expires and becomes invalid.
What you should do next
You don’t need to panic - but you shouldn’t ignore it either.
Getting early advice can help you:
- Understand your rights
- Check whether the notice is actually valid
- Explore your options and next steps
We’re here to help
If you receive a Section 21 notice - or think you might - you’re not alone.
👉 That’s what our SU Advice team is here for.
Contact us via email with any questions at advice@thesu.org.uk. Or book an SU Advice appointment via our booking system here.
We can explain what the notice means, check if it’s valid, and talk through all your options.