Landlord repossessions increased by 6.8% across England and Wales over the last 12 months according to Dwelly.

Dwelly analysed official Government mortgage and landlord possession statistics released in August 2025 and discovered that possessions had increased when compared to the previous 12 month period.

London recorded the highest outright number of repossessions at 7,953, a rise of 19.5%, while the West Midlands is up 13.4%.

Sam Humphreys, Head of M&A at Dwelly, said: “The abolition of Section 21 is a cornerstone of the incoming Renters’ Rights Bill, but it risks removing a vital safeguard for landlords and the sharp rise in repossessions is a clear sign that landlords are already acting to protect themselves in advance of these changes. 

“It’s important to understand this isn’t about landlords leaving the market, or evicting tenants for the sake of it, but about them seeking to retain control of their assets whilst they can do so via current processes.”

In contrast, just three regions have seen a decline. Wales has recorded the largest fall at -33.8%, the South East is down -12.3%, and the South West has seen a drop of -3.9%.

At a local authority level, the biggest increases have been seen in Thurrock, where repossessions climbed by 2,540% over the last 12 months. The top five is completed by Basildon with an increase of 889%, Castle Point (183%), Welwyn Hatfield (165%) and Horsham (150%).

Humphreys said: “The private rented sector is essential to housing supply and if the Bill makes it harder for landlords to operate, it could backfire by further reducing availability for tenants at a time when demand has never been higher.”