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Eviction: what your landlord must do
In most private tenancies the landlord must follow strict rules to end your tenancy: a valid reason, the right notice and, if you do not leave, a court order. Only court bailiffs can then evict you. Illegal eviction and harassment are offences. The rules differ in each nation, and if you live with your landlord you have less protection.
Official links
Show links for:
| Official source | Applies to |
|---|---|
| GOV.UK: evictions for private tenants www.gov.uk/private-renting-evictions | England |
| GOV.WALES: the possession process for tenants www.gov.wales/understanding-possession-action-process-guidance-tenants-contract-holders-html | Wales |
| mygov.scot: if a private landlord wants to evict you www.mygov.scot/tenant-eviction | Scotland |
| nidirect: protection against eviction www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/protection-against-eviction | Northern Ireland |
Step by step
- Check your tenancy type: most private tenants in England have an assured periodic tenancy; lodgers who live with the landlord have fewer protections.
- If you get a written notice, get free legal advice straight away (in England, from the Housing Loss Prevention Advice Service).
- If you do not leave when the notice ends, the landlord must apply to court for a possession order, and then for a warrant before bailiffs can act.
- Reply to any court papers by the deadline, and contact your council early if you may become homeless.
What you need
- The notice your landlord gave you.
- Your tenancy agreement.
- Proof of where your deposit is protected.
- Any court papers you have received.
Common mistakes
- Ignoring court papers. Defence forms have strict deadlines, for example 14 days in accelerated possession cases.
- Accepting a lock change or being forced out without a court order when you do not live with your landlord. Report it to your council.