From 1 May 2026, Section 8 with the new Form 3A is the only valid possession route in England. These pages explain each ground, the notice period, and what the court will want to see.
If proven, the court must grant possession.
Ground 1: Landlord or close family moving in
Notice: 4 months
Ground 1A: Selling the property
Notice: 4 months
Ground 8: Rent arrears of 3 months or more
Notice: 4 weeks
Ground 7A: Severe ASB or criminal conviction
Notice: Proceedings can begin immediately
Ground 6: Demolition or substantial redevelopment
Notice: 4 months
Ground 4: Student accommodation
Notice: 2 weeks
Ground 4A: HMO let to students
Notice: 4 months
Ground 7: Death of tenant
Notice: 2 months
Ground 5C: Employment-linked tenancy
Notice: 2 months
The court decides whether eviction is reasonable on the evidence.
Ground 2: Mortgage lender possession
Notice: 2 months
Ground 10: Any rent arrears
Notice: 4 weeks
Ground 11: Persistent late payment
Notice: 4 weeks
Ground 12: Breach of a tenancy term
Notice: 2 weeks
Ground 13: Property deterioration
Notice: 2 weeks
Ground 14: Anti-social behaviour
Notice: Proceedings can begin immediately
Ground 9: Suitable alternative accommodation
Notice: 2 months
Ground 17: Tenant obtained tenancy by false statement
Notice: 2 weeks