Delta Point evictions show why renters need stronger protection now

South West London Law Centres (SWLLC) is supporting residents affected by the Delta Point evictions in Croydon, where large numbers of tenants are reported to have received Section 21 “no-fault” eviction notices. In response, two of our housing advisers took part in an emergency advice clinic at the local MP’s office to help residents understand their rights, access specialist support, and feel less alone in what is for many a frightening and deeply uncertain situation.

For the people affected, this is not just a policy issue or another housing headline. It is the threat of losing a home, being pushed into an already impossible rental market, and having to make urgent decisions under pressure.

Residents have also spoken publicly about difficult living conditions in the building, including leaks and pest issues, making the situation even more distressing. At a time when many renters are already stretched financially and emotionally, the impact of mass eviction notices like these can be devastating.

At SWLLC, we see every day how housing insecurity affects every part of a person’s life. It can affect mental health, physical wellbeing, work, children’s education, finances, and a person’s sense of safety and stability. When notices are issued on this scale, the impact is felt not only by individual tenants but across families, communities and already overstretched local services.

This moment shows exactly why Section 21 has caused so much harm for so long. Reports suggest these notices are being served before the Renters’ Rights Act comes into force and abolishes “no-fault” evictions, raising serious concern that renters are being pushed out while landlords still can. The planned end of Section 21 is welcome and long overdue, but for many tenants that protection is not coming soon enough. Councils must also be properly supported to help renters facing eviction before the new protections take effect.

Sarah Jones, MP for Croydon West, who has worked with residents on issues at Delta Point over several years, said she was not surprised to hear that Section 21 notices were being issued before the new protections come into force. She also raised concern about the role of temporary accommodation in the block and the wider impact on residents already facing poor conditions.

She said: “I organised a free legal advice surgery at my office to help residents to navigate this extremely challenging situation. I am very grateful to South West London Law Centres for providing invaluable advice.”

One of our housing advisers present at the clinic said “We are very concerned by what residents at Delta Point are facing. No one should be left in fear of losing their home, especially when they have done nothing wrong. Our role is to make sure people understand their rights and can access support at a time when they need it most”.

If you have received a Section 21 notice, it is important to remember that you do not necessarily have to leave immediately. The section 21 notice must be valid and a landlord must lawfully evict you through the county court. In some cases it may be possible to challenge the validity of the section 21 notice. Getting advice early can make a real difference.

Getting advice early can make a real difference.

Need advice?
If you are affected by the Delta Point evictions, or are worried about a Section 21 notice, seek legal advice as soon as possible. Specialist housing advice can help you understand your rights, your options, and the next steps available to you.