From 1 May 2026 (Renters' Rights Act 2025, Phase 1), no-fault evictions via Section 21 are no longer available. All possession proceedings must go through Section 8.
A Section 8 notice must be served using Form 3A (the prescribed form under RRA 2025). The old Form 3 is no longer valid. You must state the specific grounds you are relying on and fully explain why each ground applies — incomplete notices risk being dismissed by the court.
The court will not grant a possession order unless your tenant's deposit is either protected in a government-approved scheme or has been returned in full. The only exceptions are Grounds 7A and 14 (serious antisocial behaviour). Check your deposit is protected before filing with the court.
| Ground | Type | Notice period |
|---|---|---|
| Ground 1 (landlord/family to occupy) | Mandatory | 4 months |
| Ground 1A (landlord intends to sell) | Mandatory | 4 months |
| Ground 7A (serious antisocial/criminal) | Mandatory | Immediate (14-day court wait) |
| Ground 8 (3+ months rent arrears) | Mandatory | 4 weeks |
| Ground 10 (any rent arrears) | Discretionary | 4 weeks |
| Ground 11 (persistent late payment) | Discretionary | 4 weeks |
| Ground 12 (tenancy breach) | Discretionary | 2 weeks |
| Ground 13 (property deterioration) | Discretionary | 2 weeks |
| Ground 14 (antisocial behaviour) | Discretionary | Immediate |
| Ground 17 (false statement) | Discretionary | 2 weeks |
Disclaimer: This is a summary for information only. Always take legal advice before serving a notice.
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