The current notice period

With the introduction of the Coronavirus Act 2020 during the pandemic, notice periods for eviction were increased to six months on most grounds.

From 1 June 2021, except for the most serious cases, notice periods were reduced to four months. Where less than four months rent is unpaid, the notice period is two months. 



What is changing

Notice periods will be returning to their pre-COVID lengths from 1 October. However, the UK Government will be retaining the ability (until 25 March 2022) to reapply longer notice periods should the public health position worsens.

Renting and court guidance will be changed ahead of 1 October to reflect the change in notice periods.

The UK Government is also publishing new Forms 3 and 6A (section 8 and section 21 notices). These will be coming into force 1 October and as always, it is crucial that landlords use the correct form of notice that is in force as at the date the notice is served.

Things to consider

If you are a landlord considering serving a Section 21 or Section 8 notice on your tenant, it may be quicker to wait until 1 October rather than serving a notice with the current longer 4-month notice period.

If you have any queries regarding the changes or are seeking expert advice, please do not hesitate to get in contact with one of our possessions team and we will be happy to help guide you.