Eviction for rent arrears
Your landlord must take certain steps before they can evict you for rent arrears. Find out about the legal process and what you can do before and after eviction.
What to do if you're in rent arrears
Eviction is a legal process. It takes time and many landlords only use it as a last resort.
Contact your landlord if you have problems paying your rent.
You might be able to sort things out.
Steps your landlord must take to evict
Your landlord must usually give you notice and get a court order if you're:
If you live with your landlord, they can give you reasonable notice to leave. They don't need to get a court order. They can't forcibly evict you but could change the locks once your notice or contract has ended.
If you leave because of rent arrears
You might decide to leave your tenancy because you can't afford the rent.
Things to consider before leaving include:
- if you'll need to apply as homeless
- whether you can find anything more affordable
- the extra costs you'll have to pay if the landlord goes to court
Don't feel pressured into leaving early, especially if you have nowhere else to go. It usually takes a few months for the eviction process to go through court.
Ending your tenancy
If you decide to leave, you must end your tenancy properly or your rent arrears will continue to grow until the property is re-let.
Your landlord might agree that you can end your tenancy immediately or at short notice. Get any agreement in writing to avoid disputes later on.
If you have a rolling (periodic) tenancy, you must give at least 4 weeks' notice unless your landlord agrees to a shorter notice period.
If you have a fixed-term tenancy, you'll need to negotiate an early end to the tenancy or check your contract for a break clause.
How to find a new home
It can be difficult to find somewhere new to live if you're evicted or owe rent at a previous address.
Private landlords and letting agents usually ask for a reference from your most recent landlord.
You can ask the council for help if you're homeless or at risk of losing your home. You don't have to wait until you're evicted.
You won't qualify for longer-term housing if the council decides you're intentionally homeless because of rent arrears or because you left too early.
The council might exclude you from the housing register or give you less priority.
Get advice if you have problems finding a new home after eviction.
Use Shelter's directory to find a local advice centre
Still need help?
Get advice if you're threatened with eviction or homelessness because of rent arrears.
If you're on a low income, check if you qualify for legal aid.
Contact Civil Legal Advice on 0345 345 4 345
Or contact Shelter and speak to one of our expert advisers:
Call our emergency helpline if you're threatened with eviction
Last updated 31 May 2018 | © Shelter
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