This guide provides practical steps to support a social tenant with rent arrears who has received a notice seeking possession.

A social tenant rents their home from a local council or housing association.

Act quickly when a tenant is given a notice seeking possession. Early support could stop the landlord issuing possession proceedings.

Why early action matters

When a landlord issues a notice the tenant has a limited amount of time to stop the matter going to court. Early advice can help the tenant:

• negotiate a repayment plan

• reduce arrears

• identify a defence

• avoid court action

A notice is the first step of the process and does not mean the tenant will definitely lose their home.

Advising a tenant with rent arrears before a notice

Practical guidance is available on advising a social tenant with rent arrears before they have received a notice. This includes advice on:

• income maximisation

• affordability

• reducing the arrears

• discretionary housing payments

Find the guide advising a social tenant with rent arrears on Shelter Legal.