The law protects tenants against harassment and illegal eviction. This page describes some of the types of harassment. It explains what tenants can do if they are being harassed or threatened with illegal eviction.
What can I do if my landlord wants me to leave
Most tenants are entitled to a written notice telling them to leave a property. This is even if your landlord did not give you a written agreement to live there in the first place. The only exception to this is where you are sharing the living accommodation. For example, if you are sharing a kitchen or bathroom with your landlord. In this case, the landlord only must verbally ask you to leave.
As of 1 May 2026, all tenancies become Assured Periodic tenancies. This means that if your tenancy has a fixed date when it comes to an end, this date will no longer apply. Landlords must provide tenants with a valid written notice which gives one of the limited grounds for possession set out stated in the Renters’ Rights Act 2025. The notice period required depends on their specific ground relied upon. If the tenant does not vacate the property voluntarily by the expiry of the notice, the landlord must obtain a court order to gain possession of the property. It is unlawful for a landlord to evict a tenant without following the proper legal process.
If your landlord makes you leave your home without following the proper legal process, it is an illegal eviction. This is a serious criminal offence.
There are 2 procedures your landlord must take depending on when the proper Notice is served on you -
- Section 8 Notice - this applies where the landlord relies on specific grounds for possession, such as rent arrears or anti-social behaviour, as outlined in the Housing Act 1988 (as amended by the RRA 2025)
- Section 21 Notice - this procedure has been abolished for private sector landlords as of 1 May 2026, meaning landlords can no longer seek possession without providing a valid reason
Shelter can help you check whether a landlord can evict you. You can find out more information on GOV.UK.