Landlords warned delays worsening as eviction cases take longer

Court waiting times for landlord possession cases are rising, even though fewer claims are being made, according to new Ministry of Justice data.

Last year, it took on average more than eight months for courts to process and enforce Section 8 possession claims — the route set to replace Section 21 “no-fault” evictions. This marks the second longest delay recorded since 2005, behind only the Covid backlog period in 2021.

The delays come despite falling case numbers. Section 8 claims dropped by almost 5% compared with 2024, while Section 21 claims fell by nearly 13% over the same period.

Section 8 requires landlords to provide a legal ground for possession, such as rent arrears, anti-social behaviour, or plans to sell the property. From 1st May, under the Renters’ Rights Act, it will become the main eviction route once Section 21 is abolished.

During the Bill’s passage through Parliament, Housing Minister Matthew Pennycook said court readiness would be essential for the reforms to work.

NRLA chief executive Ben Beadle warned the figures should act as a final alert to the Government, saying it is unacceptable for fewer cases to be taking longer and that without urgent court reform landlords may be left unable to tackle serious arrears or disruptive behaviour once the new system comes into force.