The landscape for possession claims in England has undergone significant reform following the Renters’ Rights Act 2025, introducing important changes to the grounds for possession under the Housing Act 1988.
The Grounds for Possession Under the Housing Act 1988: After the changes made by the Renters’ Rights Act 2025
This table provides a concise and practical overview of the revised grounds for possession, reflecting the current legal framework as amended. It highlights the key distinctions between mandatory and discretionary grounds, outlines the circumstances in which each may be relied upon, and summarises the evidential thresholds landlords must meet.
Whether you are a landlord, agent or other property professional, this resource is intended to support a clearer understanding of the updated regime and assist in navigating possession strategies in light of the new legislative landscape.
This table has been produced by David Smith, Partner in the Landlord & Tenant team at Bishop & Sewell. David’s specialist work areas are Landlord & Tenant Disputes, litigation around secured lending, short residential tenancies, housing regulation and agency law.
This table is intended as a general guide only and does not constitute legal advice. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the content reflects the law as understood at the time of publication on 24 June 2026. Specific legal advice should be sought for individual cases or circumstances.
