Section 21 & Eviction Notices: Expert Legal Guidance for Landlords
Evicting a tenant is one of the most legally complex and time-sensitive processes a landlord can face. A single procedural error can invalidate your notice and cost you months. Our in-house solicitor ensures every step is handled correctly — from the first notice to the final possession order.
Time is running out. Section 21 no-fault evictions will be abolished on 1st May 2026. If you need to use this route, you must act immediately.
Speak to Our Solicitor →Two routes to possession — one is disappearing.
Understanding which notice to serve, and when, is critical. Our solicitor will advise on the correct route for your circumstances.
No-Fault Eviction Notice
A Section 21 notice allows landlords to end a tenancy without giving a specific reason, provided the correct procedure is followed. This route will be abolished under the Renters Rights Act on 1st May 2026.
- Confirm deposit is protected in an approved scheme
- Ensure EPC, gas safety certificate and How to Rent guide have been provided
- Use the prescribed Form 6A
- Give at least 2 months' written notice
- Serve notice correctly — by hand, post or email (if agreed)
Fault-Based Eviction Notice
A Section 8 notice is served when a tenant has breached the terms of their tenancy. It requires the landlord to specify the legal grounds relied upon. This becomes the only route to possession from 1st May 2026.
- Identify the correct statutory ground(s) for possession
- Gather evidence — rent arrears schedule, breach documentation, correspondence
- Serve notice in the prescribed form specifying the grounds
- Observe the correct notice period for each ground
- Issue court proceedings if tenant does not vacate
Grounds for possession — know your options.
Section 8 requires you to specify the legal ground(s) relied upon. The most commonly used grounds are listed below, including new grounds introduced by the Renters Rights Act.
Rent arrears of at least 2 months (periodic) or 2 months (fixed term) at date of notice and hearing.
Some rent arrears at the date of notice and hearing — court has discretion to grant possession.
Persistent delay in paying rent, even if no arrears at date of hearing.
Breach of any tenancy obligation other than rent payment.
Deterioration of the property or common parts due to tenant's acts or neglect.
Nuisance, annoyance, or criminal conviction for using the property for illegal purposes.
Tenancy granted on the basis of a false statement made by the tenant.
Landlord or close family member wishes to move into the property as their principal home.
Landlord intends to sell the property — new ground introduced under the Renters Rights Act.
Not sure which grounds apply to your situation?
Get Expert AdviceEnd-to-end eviction support, step by step.
Initial Advice
We assess your situation, identify the correct legal route, and advise on the strength of your case before any notice is served.
Pre-Notice Checks
We verify all pre-conditions are met — deposit protection, prescribed information, EPC, gas safety certificate, and How to Rent guide.
Draft & Serve Notice
We draft the notice in the correct prescribed form and serve it on the tenant in a legally compliant manner, with proof of service.
Court Application
If the tenant does not vacate, we prepare and file the possession claim — accelerated (S21) or standard (S8) — and manage all court correspondence.
Hearing Representation
Where a hearing is listed, our solicitor attends court on your behalf to present your case and seek a possession order.
Warrant & Enforcement
If the tenant still does not leave after a possession order, we apply for a warrant of possession to instruct court bailiffs.
Frequently asked questions
Everything landlords ask us about eviction notices and possession proceedings.
Don't risk an invalid notice. Get it right first time.
Our in-house solicitor handles every aspect of the eviction process — from the first notice to the final possession order. Fixed fees, no surprises.