Need to end a tenancy?

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Ending a tenancy can be more complicated than a landlord expects or needs. Whether there has been a tenant breaching the terms of the tenancy agreement or a change in your own circumstances that mean you need to evict, we can help.

The reasons why you need to evict will affect which type of eviction notice you will need to give to your tenants, especially if you want to the procedure to go as smoothly and quickly as possible.

For a breach of contract, such as non-payment of rent, you will likely need to send a section 8. For reasons that are unrelated to the tenant themselves, e.g. you want or need your property back, you will need to send a section 21 if the tenants refuse to leave.

what can we help you with

section 8 (fault based eviction)          section 21 (mandatory eiviction)

ending a tenancy flowchart          rent arrears guide button
become a member

If you become a pims member...

As a PIMS member you will benefit from full access to all landlord documentation, including the various forms of eviction notices and letters. You will also have access to section 8 and section 21 generators and free telephone consultations with an expert for more personalised help, because you can't afford any mistakes during an eviction.

Membership also includes free tenant credit checks, help with court papers and debtor tracking service to help prevent problem tenancies in the future. See all benefits of joining PIMS here.

Memberships start from £29.95.

Ending a tenancy faqs


What if the tenant won't leave voluntarily?
You need a section 21 notice or they have the right to stay.

What if my section 21 notice expires and nothing happens?
You can apply for a possession order by post.

Can I evict a tenant who's done nothing wrong?
Yes. If there there are no tenant breaches of contract, you can serve a section 21 notice if they won't leave voluntarily.

What if my tenant owes me rent?
You need to issue a section 8 notice.

Do I have to serve an eviction notice?
If the tenant is willing to leave voluntarily, there's no need to serve an eviction notice. Just follow your normal checkout process and return the tenant's deposit.

At what point does this end up in court?
You can choose to escalate this to court by applying for a possession order when a section 21 expires and the tenant is still refusing to leave.

When does a bailiff become necessary?
When a tenant does not vacate after the date specified by the court.