Mortgage and Landlord Possession Trends Signal New Challenges Ahead

What the Latest MoJ Data Tells Landlords

The Ministry of Justice (MoJ) recently published figures indicating a decrease in landlord possession claims, court orders, and warrants issued towards the end of 2025. While this might suggest fewer landlords are initiating possession actions, the data reveals a more complex situation: repossessions have actually increased, and the average time from claim to repossession has lengthened.

This divergence signals a backlog and delays in court proceedings, making the eviction process lengthier and potentially more expensive for landlords.

Why This Matters: The Renters' Rights Act and Abolition of Section 21

From 1 May 2026, the Renters' Rights Act will abolish Section 21 no-fault evictions in England. This change removes landlords' ability to repossess properties without fault grounds, such as rent arrears or breaches of tenancy terms.

The Law Society has warned this may lead to a rise in contested possession cases. Coupled with existing court delays and increased repossessions, landlords face a challenging environment ahead.

Practical Implications for Different Landlord Profiles

• Single-Unit Landlords: Expect longer wait times and increased legal complexity. Maintaining detailed tenancy records and communications will be vital to support fault-based claims.

• HMO Landlords: Managing multiple occupancies means proactive tenant engagement and early intervention are essential to avoid contested claims.

• Portfolio Landlords: Operational challenges will grow with multiple delayed cases. Review possession strategies and prioritise cases with the strongest fault grounds.

• Accidental Landlords: Early legal advice is crucial to understand new possession grounds and prevent costly mistakes.

Recommended Immediate Actions

1. Engage Legal Expertise: Consult solicitors specialising in landlord and tenant law to update possession procedures.

2. Review Tenancy Documentation: Ensure tenancy agreements, rent payment records, and breach communications are complete and current.

3. Enhance Tenant Relations: Address issues proactively to reduce disputes escalating to possession claims.

4. Monitor Official Updates: Follow Ministry of Justice and Law Society communications on court capacity and case processing times.

5. Plan for Longer Timelines: Adjust financial and operational plans to accommodate increased possession delays.

How Rentals & Sales Can Support You

Our landlord intelligence hub offers tailored portfolio reviews, compliance audits, and tenancy management advice to help you navigate these changes. We assist in developing possession strategies aligned with the Renters' Rights Act and tenant engagement best practices.

Compliance Disclaimer

This article provides general information and does not constitute legal advice. Landlords should consult qualified legal professionals for personalised guidance.