COVID-19 It's good to talk
c.jermyn • March 26, 2020
Alternatives to possession proceedings for residential landlords
The team at Woodstock have been busy helping landlords and agents consider their options during this extremely difficult time.
Now more than ever it is crucial for landlords to consider their options where possession proceedings aren't available or where they might not be the best option for landlord or tenant.
Our advice to landlords during this period (and tenants) is to communicate and discuss the options with your tenants, particularly where you tenant has otherwise been a good tenant who has or is likely to fall into financial difficulty as a result of COVID-19.
So what are the options?
Surrender:
It may well benefit both parties to bring the tenancy to an early conclusion. Consider for example a tenant who is keen to move back in with parents and a landlord who could make use of Air BnB to accommodate individuals looking for a place to safely isolate. Or a student house where the students have returned home to live with parents, unlikely to return until the start of the next academic year and a property that the landlord wishes to sell and refurbish.
A surrender may well suit both parties and avoid the need to litigation. Communicate with your tenant and find out what their position is and the options available to them.
Rent reductions and settlement agreements:
Sometimes people just need a lifeline. Landlords should consider if where a tenant is part of government initiatives and therefore receiving 80% of their income. Landlord's should consider agreeing a temporary rent reduction on the same basis.
If the tenant is completely without income then the landlord could agree a repayment plan to commence once the relevant restriction on their work has been lifted or they have been able to find alternative employment.
These agreements should be well drafted in line with Government policy which as we know is rapidly advancing. Agreements should also consider the provision of appropriate evidence in support and allow for terms to be amended, all whilst protecting the landlords rights under the tenancy in particular in respect of gaining possession.
Should I still serve notice?
We would always recommend that a landlord serves notice alongside efforts to negotiate to protect their position should their well intended efforts fail. Good communication can prevent notices damaging the landlord and tenant relationship and can i fact go a long way to encourage a tenant to communicate. All notices served by Woodstock Property Law are supported by an informative letter setting out the legal position and encouraging communication.
If you would like assistance with dealing with your tenant and any accrued arrears, options for possession, settlements or surrenders then please contact our team and we will be more than happy to help.
Contact Us
News & Insights
We are delighted to share that Woodstock Legal Services has been shortlisted for Conveyancing Firm of the Year - South of England at the Modern Law Conveyancing Awards 2026 . We are also proud to see Bethany Hudson , one of our Consultant Licensed Conveyancers, shortlisted for Rising Star of the Year. With our head office in Poole, Dorset, we are proud of our roots in the South West and the relationships we have built within the region’s property community. These shortlists recognise both the strength of our Residential Property team and the people behind the scenes who support our clients throughout their property journey. At Woodstock Legal Services, our focus has always been on building a conveyancing service that works for both our clients and our consultants. By bringing together experienced conveyancers with dedicated back-office support and the right infrastructure, we aim to make the process of buying and selling property as straightforward as possible, while giving our lawyers the flexibility and support to deliver excellent client care. Our connection to the South West remains an important part of who we are. Through relationships with local property professionals and organisations such as Poole Property Club , we continue to build connections within the property market while supporting clients across England and Wales. Over the past year, our Residential Property team has continued to grow, supported by investment in our people, processes and technology. Our dedicated back-office teams play an equally important role, helping keep transactions moving so our conveyancers can focus on their clients and the legal work that matters most. Being shortlisted for Conveyancing Firm of the Year in the South of England is a recognition of the collective effort behind our service, from the conveyancers working directly with clients to the teams supporting them behind the scenes. Car Jermyn Managing Director of Woodstock Legal Services, added: " I’m incredibly proud to see Woodstock Legal Services shortlisted for Conveyancing Firm of the Year and Bethany Hudson recognised as a Rising Star. Both awards reflect the quality of our lawyers and the commitment of the wider team supporting them. It’s great to see the work happening across our business recognised, particularly in the South of England, where our roots are firmly established. " A growing modern law firm As we continue to grow, we are always keen to speak with experienced lawyers who want to work differently, be properly supported, and be part of a collaborative community. Behind every successful consultant is the right firm. Click here to see why consultants choose Woodstock.
England's new landlord register launches 15 Dec 2026 under the Renters' Rights Act. Check your regional deadline and avoid fines up to £40,000
Untangling a historic trust, title restriction and finance issues on a £1.45m commercial property sale - a Woodstock case study
Grass and wildfires are spreading across the UK. Find out when an accidental fire becomes negligence, and who could be liable for the resulting damage.
Expert property solicitor Pedro answers questions on auction purchases, refinancing, title splits and multi-unit property investments. Get practical legal guidance.
Invested in a care home, hotel or student flat scheme that collapsed? Learn what an unauthorised Collective Investment Scheme means for you.
Section 114 Notices are already landing. Zoe Turner explains what local authorities can demand under the Renters' Rights Act, and how to prepare.
Using a Lifetime ISA to buy your first home? Bethany Hudson explains how LISA withdrawals work in a property transaction, what to tell us early, and how to avoid costly delays.
What changes under the Renters’ Rights Act affect Welsh landlords? Learn about anti-discrimination rules, occupation contract updates, compliance deadlines and what does not apply in Wales.
