Your Eviction Rights — What Landlords Can and Can't Do

Key Principle: No Landlord Can Evict Without a Court Order

This is the most important thing to know. Your landlord cannot:

• Change the locks
• Remove your belongings
• Cut off utilities
• Intimidate you into leaving

Any of these actions is illegal and constitutes harassment or illegal eviction.

Types of Eviction Notice

Section 21 (No-Fault Eviction)

• Your landlord doesn't need a reason
• Must give you at least 2 months' notice
• Can only be used after a fixed-term tenancy ends
• Being reformed/abolished under the Renters' Reform Bill

Section 8 (Fault-Based Eviction)

• Your landlord must prove specific grounds (e.g., rent arrears)
• Notice period depends on the ground (2 weeks to 2 months)
• For rent arrears, usually requires at least 2 months of arrears at the time of the hearing

The Court Process

1. 1Landlord serves notice → You have the notice period to respond
2. 2Notice expires → Landlord applies to court for a possession order
3. 3Court hearing → You can attend and present your case
4. 4Possession order → Usually 14–42 days to leave
5. 5If you don't leave → Landlord must apply for bailiff warrant

Total timeline: typically 4–8 months from notice to enforcement

How to Protect Yourself

• Pay what you can — showing effort helps at court
• Keep records of all communication
• Apply for Discretionary Housing Payment from your council
• Contact Shelter (0808 800 4444) immediately if served notice
• Attend the court hearing — judges are often sympathetic to tenants who engage