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18 February 2026
Issue: 8150 / Categories: Legal News , Landlord&tenant , Property , Housing
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Repossession cases surge

Increased delays and backlogs in the courts ‘will be unavoidable’ when the Renters’ Rights Act comes into force in May unless extra funding is provided, the Law Society has warned

Private landlord repossessions were up 3% on the previous year in October to December 2025, according to the Ministry of Justice’s mortgage and landlord possession statistics. London borough Barking and Dagenham recorded the highest number of private landlord repossession claims—878 per 100,000 households.

Law Society president Mark Evans said the Renters’ Rights Act’s ban on ‘no fault’ evictions is likely to increase the number of contested repossessions, piling pressure on the courts.

Evans said the government ‘must ensure courts are properly funded to handle the expected rise. The courts must start getting ready now, not after the backlog starts growing even more’.

Issue: 8150 / Categories: Legal News , Landlord&tenant , Property , Housing
printer mail-details

MOVERS & SHAKERS

Shakespeare Martineau—Marie Bourke

Shakespeare Martineau—Marie Bourke

Shakespeare Martineau strengthens Sheffield regulatory practice with new hires

Sackers—Louise McRae & Annabella Hwang

Sackers—Louise McRae & Annabella Hwang

Sackers recruits new associates

McHale & Co—Shaun Little & Patrick Byrne

McHale & Co—Shaun Little & Patrick Byrne

Firm bolsters senior team with head of corporate and head of employment

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The government’s long-awaited family law reform consultation could mark a turning point for domestic abuse victims navigating financial remedy proceedings, but significant challenges remain
A new commercial court pilot giving the public access to documents used in hearings, including expert reports, is raising difficult questions about transparency and privacy
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