Have you Received an Eviction Notice?

The initial stage is your landlord giving you a ‘Notice of intention to begin proceedings for possession.’

Check if the Notice is valid

The Notice will be issued under section 8 or 21, you may wish to refer to Shelter to check if the notice is valid: Shelter Legal England - Section 21 validity checker - Shelter England or If you get a section 8 notice - Citizens Advice

If the Notice is valid

If the Notice is valid we recommend you leave the property by the date given.

Failure to do so will result in:

  • Your landlord applying to the court for a possession order. 
  • If the court grants the possession order you may have to pay the landlord’s court fee as well as any rent arrears. 
  • Failure to pay may result in a county court judgment against you which will seriously harm your credit rating.  
  • Whilst going through the eviction proceeding you are still liable to pay your rent and adhere to the tenancy agreement and conditions. 

Therefore, it is in your best interest to seek alternative accommodation or at least seek support in looking for an alternative accommodation as soon as possible. If you are receiving Universal Credit (Housing Element) or Council Tax Benefit you can apply for a DHP (Discretionary Housing Payment) to assist with rent in advance, deposit, and removals.

All deposits should have been kept in a deposit protection scheme; you should see if you are able to use this to help you move. Tenancy deposit protection was introduced by the Government in April 2007 for all assured shorthold tenancies in England and Wales where a deposit was taken. The aim is to make sure you’re treated fairly at the end of your tenancy. Your landlord or letting agent has a number of legal obligations, as set out in the Housing Act 2004, that they need to fulfil to ensure your deposit is protected lawfully and you’re notified of this.

If you know the landlords’ reasons to seek possession are justified and you do not have grounds to contest it in court, we recommend you find new accommodation by the date on the notice, or by a date agreed with your landlord.

Finding a new home: Housing options and support

For further housing advice, you can contact the Council housing advice team at 0208 724 8325 or housingadviceservice@lbbd.gov.uk