# ‘New era’ for private renters as stronger rights and protections come into force

By Manjinder Kaur Atwal — 2026-04-30

Manjinder Kaur Atwal, director of housing law at Duncan Lewis Solicitors, said: “Ending Section 21 is genuinely transformative.

“It marks a fundamental shift in the balance of power between landlords and the 11 million private renters in England.

“For too long, tenants have lived with the constant risk of losing their home without reason, which has driven insecurity across the sector.

“These reforms are a significant step forward, but their real success will depend on consistent enforcement so that renters can genuinely rely on the protections now in place.

“However, these reforms will only be as effective as their enforcement.

“We are likely to see an increase in contested possession claims under Section 8, which could place further strain on an already overstretched court system.

“Without proper resourcing, there is a real risk that delays will undermine the intended protections.

“It is also crucial that tenants are made aware of their new rights. Many renters remain uncertain about what these changes mean in practice, and without access to early legal advice, those rights may not be fully realised.

“This is a significant shift in the law, but it must be supported by clear guidance, effective enforcement, and proper investment in the justice system to ensure it delivers meaningful, lasting change.”

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