Possible Invalid Section 21 Notice – Advice Appreciated

Titus_Wadd

I don't suppose you're in a position to make the LL an offer and buy yourself? ( if that's something you'd be interested in doing).

Grumpy_chap

What also makes this situation difficult to understand is that the landlord owns several other flats in the same area, including one directly opposite mine in the same block. That flat is very small as well (under 30 square metres) and is occupied by a couple who moved in much more recently than I did. Yet my flat is the one being sold.

Maybe the LL is selling all their properties?

Maybe the LL needs to sell one property (or some of the properties) so served notice on all Ts and will then sell the ones that show least resistance.

Maybe something else.

No point trying to second guess these types of things.

silvercar

What also makes this situation difficult to understand is that the landlord owns several other flats in the same area, including one directly opposite mine in the same block. That flat is very small as well (under 30 square metres) and is occupied by a couple who moved in much more recently than I did. Yet my flat is the one being sold.

It could be that it has a lower EPC rating, or will do. Could be that the landlord will have a higher / lower CGT liability on this one that the other. Could be that he feels that the current market favours offloading a smaller property. Could be that this one would be harder to let in the future or the return would be lower. It doesn’t really matter what his reason is.

SORN

for Titus_Wadd

At the moment I am mainly focused on resolving the current situation and securing stability for my work and accommodation, rather than looking at purchasing options.

SORN

to Grumpy_chap

That is fair, and you are probably right that there is little benefit in trying to guess the landlord’s exact reasoning.

At this stage I am mainly focused on understanding my legal position, making sure the correct procedures have been followed, and finding a practical solution that avoids unnecessary disruption to my work and living situation.

SORN

To silvercar

Yes, that is true, there could be many reasons behind the decision and ultimately only the landlord knows the exact reason.

My main concern is simply understanding whether the correct legal process has been followed and making sure I have enough time to relocate my home and self-employed work properly.

silvercar

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/82002567#Comment_82002567

The writing is on the wall. Use your energy in finding a new place. Whether the section 21 is valid or the landlord needs to issue a notice that they are selling up and so need possession, one way or another your tenancy is ending. However long your drag it out, this is only going to end one way. Given that possession hearings and bailiff appointments are taking months, you have time to find somewhere, I’d concentrate on that.

TroubledTarts

You say the property has been up for sale for a long time, how long?

I presume the LL was trying to sell with you as a tenant in situ and now wants to sell as a vacant property.

MobileSaver

"But if there are procedural issues, I do not think it is unreasonable to understand my rights and ensure the process is being handled correctly."

I'd echo the advice of @silvercar and others; karma can really come back to bite you - looking for a technicality to delay the inevitable could backfire spectacularly if you end up with a less than ideal reference from your current landlord.