Ground 1A: Selling the property
The new mandatory ground for landlords who want to sell with vacant possession.
Ground 1A is brand new under the Renters' Rights Act 2025. It allows a private landlord to recover possession of an assured tenancy where the landlord intends to sell the property.
Before the Act, a landlord wanting to sell with vacant possession would have used Section 21. With Section 21 abolished from 1 May 2026, Ground 1A is the only direct path.
What you need
- A genuine intention to sell within a reasonable time after the tenant leaves.
- The tenancy must have started at least 12 months before the notice is served.
- A correctly served Form 3A specifying Ground 1A.
- Evidence of intention to sell if challenged: estate agent instruction, marketing materials, contract for sale, etc.
Notice period and timing
4 months written notice via Form 3A. The earliest date possession can be sought is the day after the notice expires.
The 12-month minimum tenancy length is calculated from the start of the tenancy, not from when the current rent period began.
Common mistakes
- Re-letting (or marketing for let) within 12 months of the tenant moving out is prohibited. Penalties up to £40,000.
- If the sale falls through, you are still bound by the 12-month re-let restriction.
- Family transfers, putting the property into a company you control, or gifting it can still count as 'not selling' depending on the facts; take advice before structuring around the rules.
- Ground 1A cannot be combined with Ground 1 in the alternative on the same notice if the genuine intention is unclear; pick the right ground.
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.