Let's start with section 8 notices

And section 21 notices

Resolution outside the courts

It is more important than ever that landlords use the new often longer notice periods to engage with their tenants and see if a resolution other than court proceedings can be achieved. Not only is this beneficial for both parties but if proceedings are issued the courts will expect the parties to explore settlement. Landlord's are also expected to provide the court with information on the impact of COVID 19 on their tenant and any dependants if the matter proceeds to court.

No room for error

Finally, whilst getting the notice period right is essential (and don't forget to allow for proper service) the accurate drafting of the notices is key. It is clear that the Government are doing their best to prevent a homelessness crisis and the courts, whilst no doubt sympathetic to the plight of landlords (to varying degrees), will not want to make an order for possession against an individual impacted by COVID 19 so are likely to offer very little leeway for errors in drafting.

If you need to serve notice then we strongly recommend that you obtain legal advice and if you have already served notice then get that notice checked well in advance of the date it expires. There would be nothing worse than waiting weeks or months for your notice to expire and finally your date at court to then realise the notice served was invalid and you need to start all over again.

Our team have helped hundreds of landlords serve valid notices for possession during the pandemic and are always happy to answer your questions whether it's on serving notice or helping you to seek a amicable resolution with your tenant.