Grounds for possession
Information on grounds for possession for assured, secure and regulated tenancies.
Assured tenancy mandatory grounds from 1 May 2026
The court normally orders outright possession of a private assured tenancy if it is satisfied that the conditions for a mandatory ground are met.
Assured tenancy discretionary grounds from 1 May 2026
The court can make a possession order on a discretionary ground if it is reasonable to do so.
Ground 8 possession
A private or housing association landlord can use ground 8 to gain possession of an assured tenancy if rent arrears exceed two months.
Possession when a landlord wants to sell or move in
When a private landlord can gain possession of an assured tenancy if they want to sell the property or move in, restrictions on ground 1 and ground 1A and penalties for misuse.
Assured mandatory grounds for private tenancies before 1 May 2026 and social tenancies
Mandatory grounds for private assured tenancies before 1 May 2026 and social assured tenancies.
Assured discretionary grounds for private tenancies before 1 May 2026 and social tenancies
Discretionary grounds for private assured tenancies before 1 May 2026 and social assured tenancies.
Secure tenancy grounds
The court can order possession of a secure tenancy on discretionary grounds 1 to 8 if it is reasonable to do so.
Secure tenancy grounds with rehousing
A landlord must offer a secure tenant suitable accommodation if the court orders possession on mandatory grounds 9 to 11 or discretionary grounds 12 to 15A.
Secure tenancy mandatory ASB ground
This ground is available for seeking possession of secure/flexible tenancies where antisocial behaviour has already been proved in another court.
Regulated tenancy discretionary grounds
The court can order possession of a regulated tenancy on a discretionary ground if it is reasonable to do so.
Regulated tenancy mandatory grounds
The court usually orders outright possession of a regulated tenancy if it is satisfied the conditions for a mandatory ground are met.