EVICTION - Your Next Step

This flowchart helps landlords and letting agents identify the correct eviction route and avoid jumping ahead before the file is ready.

PIMS view is simple: eviction is a controlled legal process. Follow the sequence, build the evidence, and use the correct document at the correct stage.

Section 21 Transition Warning

Section 21 cannot be issued on or after 1 May 2026. Valid Section 21 notices served before 1 May 2026 may still be used if proceedings are issued before 31 July 2026. After that, possession will normally rely on Section 8 and Form 3A.

PIMS Eviction Flowchart

1. Problem Identified

Rent arrears, breach, tenant refuses to leave, or possession required.

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Can it be resolved safely?

If the tenant is willing to leave voluntarily, consider a documented surrender.

Negotiated Surrender

Is formal action needed?

If the tenant will not resolve matters, move into evidence and compliance control.

Rent Arrears Guide
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2. Build the Evidence File

Rent schedule, arrears letters, repair records, inspection records, guarantor contact, and service evidence.

Arrears LettersCompliance Checklist
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3. Check Risk Before Notice

Deposit, prescribed information, licensing, repairs, disrepair allegations, harassment risk, and Renters’ Rights fines exposure.

Check Fines & RisksDeposit Compliance
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Section 21 Transition Case?

Only if validly served before 1 May 2026 and court claim issued before 31 July 2026.

Court Outcomes

Section 8 Route

From 1 May 2026, use Form 3A and the correct Section 8 grounds.

Complete Section 8
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4. Serve Notice Correctly

Use the correct form, correct grounds, correct notice period, correct wording, and keep proof of service.

Use PIMS Section 8 NoticeCompletion Guide
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5. Prepare Court Bundle

Court is evidence-led. Prepare rent records, notices, service proof, compliance documents, repairs history and chronology.

Court Bundle Checklist
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6. Court Hearing & Judge’s Decision

The judge may grant outright possession, suspended possession, adjourn, dismiss, or make a money order.

Court Hearing & Outcomes
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Tenant Leaves

Record keys, condition, final account, deposit position and any remaining debt.

Tenant Stays

Do not change locks. Apply for bailiff or consider HCEO where justified.

Bailiff Enforcement

PIMS Final Rule

Do not skip stages. Every shortcut creates risk: invalid notice, failed claim, adjournment, counterclaim, enforcement delay or unlawful eviction allegation.

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