How long do I have to leave after a Section 21 notice?

This guidance applies to England unless stated otherwise. Section 21 was abolished on 1 May 2026 by the Renters' Rights Act 2025, so landlords can no longer serve new Section 21 notices. If you received a Section 21 notice before 1 May 2026, what matters now is whether your landlord started court proceedings (issued a possession claim) by 31 July 2026. If they did not, the notice is void and you cannot be evicted on the basis of it. To seek possession, your landlord would need to serve a Section 8 notice relying on one of the legal grounds for possession. If proceedings were started in time, the date in the notice still did not mean you had to leave on that day. You are entitled to stay until the court grants a possession order, and normally a bailiff's warrant must also be issued before anyone can lawfully remove you. The court can also refuse possession if the notice was invalid, for example if your deposit was not protected or you were not given the "How to Rent" guide. Shelter, Citizens Advice or your local council can help if you are facing a possession claim. This information is general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice.