Section 8 eviction notices
The law is changing
We expect Renters' Rights Act changes to start in 2026.
Your rights will not change if you get a section 8 notice before the law changes.
Get ready for the court hearing
Always go to your court hearing.
You might need to:
book time off work
arrange childcare
ask a friend or relative to pick up your children from school
A legal adviser can speak for you at the court hearing.
You cannot ask a friend to speak for you but you could take them with you for support.
Get free legal advice
You can look for help as soon as you get a notice.
Find a legal adviser on GOV.UK
Tick 'housing loss prevention advice service' on the search tool.
You could get more legal help if you get benefits or have a low income.
Check where the court hearing is
The hearing is usually at your local county court.
The address is on the N5 claim form that the court sends you.
Work out how long it takes to get there. For example, think about public transport or parking.
If you need an interpreter
You can get a free interpreter during the hearing if either:
you do not understand English
you're Deaf and use British Sign Language (BSL)
You can also ask the judge to let a friend or family member explain what the judge says in your own language.
Free interpreters at court
Contact the court before the hearing to tell them you need this service.
If you cannot find legal help before the hearing
You should still go to your court hearing.
You can usually speak to a court duty adviser before you see the judge.
Free legal help at court
You can get free legal help on the day.
Ask to speak to a court duty adviser as soon as you get there.
Use our checklists if you owe rent
You do not have long with the duty adviser or the judge. It helps to have your documents and information with you.
What to take to your hearing
the section 8 notice
your tenancy agreement
court letters and defence form
your bank statements
proof of your benefits claim
a repayment plan even if your landlord has not agreed to it
proof that you can pay your rent and repay what you owe
emails or letters about a new job or return to work
proof that you paid a deposit if it is not protected
proof that you reported repairs if work has not been done
texts, emails or letters if your landlord has harassed you
What to tell the duty adviser or the judge
how much rent you owe
why you missed payments or were late with rent
what you have done to pay back the missed payments
how much you can pay each month to clear the arrears
if you need a delay to get more legal advice
why you could not get advice before the hearing
Last updated: 6 November 2025
