Download a free Section 8 notice template for grounds-based eviction. Rent arrears, antisocial behaviour, property damage and more.
Section 8 has 17 different grounds for eviction. Here are the most commonly used, split into mandatory and discretionary categories.
2+ months rent arrears
Landlord previously lived there
Serious antisocial behaviour
Any rent arrears (past or present)
Breach of tenancy agreement
Nuisance or antisocial behaviour
For rent arrears cases, we recommend citing both Ground 8 (mandatory) and Ground 10/11 (discretionary). This gives you a backup if arrears drop below 2 months before the hearing.
Understanding when to use each type of eviction notice can save you time and money.
| Feature | Section 8 | Section 21 |
|---|---|---|
| Reason required? | Yes - must prove grounds | No - no fault needed |
| Minimum notice | 2 weeks - 2 months | 2 months |
| Works after May 2026? | ||
| Court hearing required? | Yes - prove grounds | Usually paper-based |
| Best for | Rent arrears, breach, ASB | Selling, moving back in |
Pro tip: Many landlords serve both Section 8 and Section 21 notices together for maximum flexibility.
Get both notices for £29.99Our free Section 8 template helps you understand the process. For court proceedings, choose our Complete Pack with AI ground recommendation.
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While Section 21 is being abolished, Section 8 grounds-based eviction continues. Understanding Section 8 is essential for all future evictions in England.
Get Your Section 8 Notice NowA Section 8 notice is a formal notice used by landlords to seek possession of a property based on specific grounds, such as rent arrears, antisocial behaviour, or breach of tenancy agreement. Unlike Section 21, you must prove the grounds in court.
There are 17 grounds for Section 8 eviction, split into mandatory (court must grant possession) and discretionary (court may grant possession). Common grounds include rent arrears over 2 months (Ground 8), antisocial behaviour (Ground 14), and breach of tenancy (Ground 12).
Notice periods vary by ground. Serious rent arrears (Ground 8) and antisocial behaviour require only 2 weeks notice. Most other grounds require 2 months notice. The notice remains valid for 12 months.
It depends on your situation. Section 8 can be faster for rent arrears (2 weeks notice vs 2 months) but requires proving grounds in court. Section 21 is simpler but ends May 2026. Many landlords serve both notices together.
Yes. The Renters' Rights Act only abolishes Section 21 (no-fault eviction). Section 8 grounds-based eviction will continue, though some grounds may be modified. This makes understanding Section 8 essential for future evictions.
For mandatory Ground 8, the tenant must be at least 2 months (8 weeks) in arrears when you serve the notice AND when the court hearing takes place. For discretionary Ground 10, any amount of arrears may be sufficient.
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