What If You're Facing Eviction?

 If you have received a notice from your landlord or are worried about losing your home, it is important to seek advice as soon as possible.

Being at risk of eviction can be stressful, but receiving a notice does not always mean you will have to leave your home immediately. The options available to you will depend on your circumstances, the type of tenancy you have, and the reason for the eviction.

Taking action early can increase the support and options available to you.

Eviction is the legal process a landlord must follow to regain possession of a property.

Landlords cannot usually make you leave your home without following the correct legal procedures.

The process will vary depending on:

• The type of tenancy you have.
• Whether you rent from a private landlord, housing association, or council.
• The reason for the eviction.

Common reasons include:

• Rent arrears.
• Breaching tenancy conditions.
• Antisocial behaviour.
• The landlord requiring possession of the property.
• The end of a fixed-term tenancy.

The notice you receive should explain why your landlord is seeking possession.

In most cases, your landlord must serve a formal notice before they can take further action.

The notice should explain:

• Why the landlord is taking action.
• What steps you may need to take.
• Any relevant timescales.

Do not ignore any notice you receive.

Keep copies of all letters, emails and documents relating to your tenancy.

Check:

• The date on the notice.
• The reason for the notice.
• Any actions the landlord expects you to take.

The sooner you seek advice, the more options may be available.

If possible, continue paying your rent and any agreed payments towards arrears.

Keep together:

• Your tenancy agreement.
• Rent statements.
• Letters from your landlord.
• Benefit letters.
• Any court documents.

These documents may help an advisor understand your situation.

Rent arrears are one of the most common reasons for eviction.

If you have fallen behind with your rent:

• Contact your landlord as soon as possible.
• Check whether you're entitled to additional benefits.
• Consider applying for a Discretionary Housing Payment.
• Create a household budget.
• Seek debt and housing advice.

Many landlords are willing to discuss repayment arrangements if you engage with them early.

Receiving a notice does not normally mean you must leave your home straight away.

In many cases:

• Further legal steps must be taken.
• A court may need to become involved.
• Additional notices may be required.

You should always seek advice before deciding to leave your home.

If you receive court papers:

• Do not ignore them.
• Respond by any stated deadline.
• Attend any court hearings if required.
• Seek advice immediately.

Court action does not automatically mean eviction will take place, and there may still be options available.

Your local council may be able to provide assistance if you are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.

The council may:

• Assess your housing situation.
• Offer housing advice.
• Help prevent homelessness.
• Explore alternative accommodation options where appropriate.

Support available will depend on your circumstances.

If you believe you may become homeless, contact your local council as soon as possible.

Early contact gives the council more opportunity to assess your situation and provide support.

You may be able to reduce the risk by:

The earlier you act, the more options are likely to be available.

"I've Received A Notice, So I Must Leave Immediately"

"There's Nothing I Can Do"

"The Council Can't Help Me Until I'm Homeless"

"Ignoring The Problem Will Make It Go Away"

Our advisors can help you:

• Understand eviction notices.
• Check your housing rights.
• Explore options to prevent homelessness.
• Access benefits and housing support.
• Deal with rent arrears and household debts.

Contact our team for free, confidential advice and support.