LEGAL COMPLIANCE WIZARD

Section 21 Validity Audit

Verify all 4 mandatory requirements before serving your Section 21 notice

Missing ANY requirement = Invalid notice = Wasted court fees & lost time

CRITICAL: The Renters' Rights Bill will abolish Section 21 by 2026. Properly documented tenant screening NOW is your only defence. Focus on prevention, not eviction.
Deposit
Gas Safety
EPC Rating
How to Rent
Step 1: Deposit Protection Scheme

Was the deposit protected within 30 days?

Your tenant's deposit MUST be protected in an approved scheme (TDS, DPS, or MyDeposits) within 30 days of receipt. This is non-negotiable.

Why this matters: If not protected on time, the tenancy becomes legally unprotected and Section 21 becomes void. This is the single biggest reason Section 21 notices fail in court.
Step 2: Gas Safety Certificate

Was a valid Gas Safety Certificate served before move-in?

If the property has gas appliances (boiler, cooker, etc.), you MUST provide a valid Gas Safety Certificate to the tenant BEFORE they move in.

Why this matters: Failure to provide a Gas Certificate makes the let illegal and Section 21 unenforceable. You also breach safety regulations and face £6,000+ fines.
Step 3: Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)

Is the EPC rating E or above?

Since April 2020, you cannot legally let a residential property with an EPC rating below E (F or G = illegal let).

Why this matters: An illegal let voids Section 21 and makes you liable for penalty charges (up to the full rent for the illegal letting period).
Step 4: "How to Rent" Guide

When did the tenancy start?

The exact version of the "How to Rent" guide served MUST match the version in force on the tenancy start date.

Why this matters: Serving the WRONG guide version = automatic Section 21 failure. Courts are strict about this.

Audit Failed

What Now?

Your Section 21 notice is likely invalid and unenforceable in court.

Before proceeding, you must consult a qualified solicitor to assess your legal position.

All Requirements Met

You have satisfied all 4 legal requirements for Section 21.

Your notice is legally compliant and can proceed to court if needed.

Next Steps

✓ You're now ready to formally serve the Section 21 notice

✓ Use a tracking service or solicitor to ensure proper service

✓ Document everything for court proceedings

⏰ Section 21 gives 2-6 months notice depending on tenancy length

Pro Tip: Section 21 is closing. Even with a valid notice, tenants can now request "fault-based" grounds (rent arrears, damage, ASB). Document ALL tenant issues NOW. The best "exit strategy" is excellent tenant screening at the front door. Run a Forensic Tenant Scan