If you rent from a private landlord, who does not live with you, you will probably have an assured shorthold tenancy, also known as an AST.

 The Shelter website has a handy Tenancy Checker tool which you can use to check your tenancy type if you are unsure.

 If you have an assured shorthold tenancy, your landlord has to follow specific legal steps to evict you.  In most cases, this would involve your landlord giving you a Section 21 notice.  

There are certain factors which will make this notice valid, or invalid, so it is essential to get advice as soon as possible.  Further information regarding section 21 notices can be found on the shelter website.

 In certain circumstances, such as if you have rent arrears, your landlord might give you a Section 8 notice.    

Please see our Struggling to pay your rent or Mortgage page for advice and help regarding paying your rent and useful links to money and debt advice.

 If you have been given notice by your landlord, you do not have to leave the property when your notice has expired.  

If you have nowhere else to move to, you are allowed to remain in the property.  After a section 21 or section 8 notice expires your landlord can start the next stage in the eviction process by applying to the court for a Possession Order.

How can we help

If your landlord serves you notice, you should contact the Housing Solutions Team immediately.   We will be able to check if the notice is valid, and speak to your landlord to try and prevent you becoming homeless.  

 Please complete our self-referral form using the link below:

Housing Jigsaw –register online for homelessness advice

 We will contact you once we have received your form to advise you of the next steps, which may include a telephone appointment with a Housing Solutions Officer.

 Useful Links

Citizens Advice

Shelter England