Eviction
The law is changing
The Renters' Rights Act will end section 21 'no fault' evictions.
Changes for private tenants start from 1 May 2026.
For now, your rights stay the same.
Notice to leave from a private landlord
Read our guides for assured shorthold tenants:
Lodgers who live with a landlord can be evicted without a court order.
Eviction by a council or housing association
Social landlords should only evict as a last resort. Take steps to keep your home.
Some tenants can be evicted more easily:
Facing harassment or illegal eviction?
Most tenants cannot be evicted legally without a court order.
The legal eviction process takes a few months.
Free legal help and advice
Anyone facing eviction can get free legal advice.
Going to court
Your landlord can apply to court when a notice ends.
Challenge a section 21 notice in court (private tenants)
Challenge a section 8 notice in court (private tenants)
Court hearings for rent arrears (council and housing association tenants)
Only court bailiffs can carry out an eviction
Bailiffs must give 2 weeks' notice of an eviction date.
Need more advice?
Late rent or missed mortgage payments put you at risk of eviction.
Last updated: 17 November 2025
