How to sell a tenanted property
The new mandatory Ground 1A is the path. Here is the full process.
Before 1 May 2026 most landlords selling with vacant possession used Section 21. With Section 21 abolished, Ground 1A is the only direct route. It comes with restrictions that did not exist before.
Two possible paths
Sell with vacant possession: serve Ground 1A on Form 3A, give 4 months notice, get possession, then sell.
Sell with the tenant in place: marketed as a tenanted property, often to investor buyers. The tenancy continues with the new owner. Slightly lower sale price typical.
Ground 1A timing rules
Cannot use in the first 12 months of the tenancy.
4 months notice required.
Cannot re-let or market the property for let for 12 months from the date the tenant moves out. Penalties up to £40,000.
What estate agents will ask for
EPC, gas safety certificate, electrical (EICR), proof of deposit protection, the latest tenancy agreement, and proof you have served the Information Sheet.
Common mistakes
- Marketing the property for sale and for let at the same time can look like bad faith use of Ground 1A.
- Withdrawing from the sale after possession does not lift the 12-month re-let restriction.
Source: gov.uk Guide to the Renters' Rights Act 2025. Last verified 2026-05-09. This page is informational, not legal advice. For complex disputes, consult a solicitor.