Barrow Tenants Evicted Days Before New Rent Laws Come Into Force
Tenants in Barrow have claimed they were issued eviction notices by their landlord only days before major new rental reforms came into force across England.
Residents living at Egerton Court on Barrow Island say they received “no fault” eviction notices, known as Section 21 notices, on 27 April just four days before the Renters’ Rights Act became law on 1 May. The new legislation has since ended the use of Section 21 evictions, which previously allowed landlords to evict tenants without giving a reason.
Around 30 flats are understood to be affected in the building, although it is not yet clear how many tenants have been formally served or how many are currently occupied. Some residents say they were given only a short period to make alternative living arrangements.
One couple affected, who have lived in their home for several years, say the timing of the notices has left them facing uncertainty and potential homelessness. They also claim they have experienced ongoing issues with the condition of the property, including maintenance concerns that they say were not adequately addressed.
The landlord, Dewsbury Road Property Estates, said the notices were issued in line with the law at the time and formed part of wider plans for the building, including potential refurbishment and long-term investment work. The company said it remained committed to improving standards across its properties.
The situation comes amid wider reports across England of landlords serving eviction notices shortly before the new rules took effect, as the rental sector adjusts to one of the biggest overhauls in decades.
The Renters’ Rights Act, which came into force on 1 May 2026, has abolished Section 21 evictions and introduced stronger protections for tenants, including greater security of tenure and new limits on how tenancies can be ended.
Housing campaigners have previously warned that the transition period leading up to the change could see a spike in last-minute eviction notices as landlords move before restrictions fully apply.
The new law is expected to significantly reshape England’s private rental sector, offering tenants increased rights while requiring landlords to use specific legal grounds if they wish to regain possession of a property.
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