Renters’ Rights Act: Possession Notice Deadlines, Updated Court Fees and Guidance

The first phase of the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 is now in force, introducing significant changes to the possession process for residential landlords.  If you have already served a possession notice or are considering taking possession action – it is important to understand the new requirements and key deadlines. 

Possession Notices Served Before 1st May 2026 

Special transitional provisions apply where a Section 21 Notice or Section 8 Notice was served before 1st May 2026.

If you served a notice before this date, you should ensure that:

• The correct prescribed notice was used;
• The appropriate possession grounds were cited;
• The correct statutory notice period was given; and 
• Your application for possession is submitted to the court no later than 31st July 2026 

It is important to note that any Section 21 or Section 8 Notice served before 1st May 2026 will automatically expire on 31st July 2026 if court proceedings have not been commenced by that date.  If you miss this deadline, the original notice can no longer be relied upon, and any future possession action must be commenced under the new procedures.

Possession Notices Served On or After 1st May 2026

Where a Section 8 Notice is served on or after 1st May 2026, landlords must follow the new possession procedures introduced by the Renters’ Rights Act 2025. 

Court Fee Increase 

Landlords should note that the court fee for issuing a possession claim has increased from £404 to £415. 

Available Downloads

The Guidance Notes: Section 8 Housing Act 1988 has been updated to reflect the new changes to the fees. Landlords should download the Renters’ Rights Act Guidance for Residential Landlordswhich provides an overview of the legislative changes.

These documents are designed to help landlords understand the changes introduced by the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 and ensure that possession notices and court applications are completed using the most up-to-date information.