Rent Arrears Check List

Be aware more often than not arrears escalate and sadly sometimes Tenants simply don't care so familiarise your self with the PIMS  strategy check list list 



Section 8 Rent Arrears Compliance Checklist

This checklist helps you decide whether your case is strong enough before serving a Section 8 Notice.

PIMS view is simple:

A Section 8 Notice is not just a document — it is the first step in a court case.

If your file is weak when you serve the notice, your claim is already at risk.

PIMS Warning: Most possession claims fail because landlords act too early — not because the tenant does not owe rent.

1. Rent arrears position (CORE TEST)

  • Accurate rent schedule prepared
  • All payments recorded correctly
  • Arrears figure verified
  • Ground 8 threshold checked (if relying on it)
  • Arrears still valid at TODAY’S date
PIMS Insight: If your numbers are wrong, everything built on them fails.

2. Arrears letters and audit trail

  • First arrears letter sent
  • Second escalation letter sent
  • Final demand issued
  • All letters saved
  • Tenant given opportunity to remedy

→ Use Arrears Letter System

PIMS Tip: Letters are not optional — they prove reasonableness.

3. Repairs and inspection (DEFENCE CHECK)

  • Recent inspection completed
  • Repair issues identified
  • Repairs actioned or scheduled
  • Access attempts recorded
  • Tenant refusal documented (if applicable)
PIMS Legal Reality: Disrepair is the #1 defence used to delay or defeat arrears claims.

4. Compliance audit (HIGH RISK AREA)

  • Deposit protected correctly
  • Prescribed information served
  • Licensing requirements met
  • Tenancy agreement compliant
  • Legal documents served correctly

→ Check Exposure to Fines

PIMS Warning: A compliance failure can destroy a possession claim AND trigger fines.

5. Guarantor position (LEVERAGE CHECK)

  • Guarantor identified
  • Guarantor notified of arrears
  • Formal demand issued
  • Guarantor engagement recorded
PIMS Insight: Guarantors often resolve cases before court is needed.

6. Universal Credit / cash flow (OPTIONAL STRATEGY)

  • Tenant on Universal Credit?
  • Arrears over threshold?
  • Direct payment considered?
PIMS Tip: This protects income — it does not replace possession strategy.

7. Section 8 readiness (FINAL DECISION)

  • Correct grounds selected (8 / 10 / 11)
  • Evidence supports each ground
  • Notice wording will be accurate
  • Dates calculated correctly
  • Service method planned

→ Use Section 8 Notice

PIMS Legal Reality: A weak notice creates a weak claim.

Final PIMS Check

Before you serve a Section 8 Notice, ask yourself:

  • Would a judge trust my paperwork?
  • Can I prove everything I am claiming?
  • Have I acted reasonably?

If not — do not serve yet.

Strengthen your file first.