Ending an assured periodic tenancy is a legal process with ground-specific evidence and notice. This guide starts when possession is being considered and follows the decision through notice and court, rather than dealing with everyday arrears management.
The lawful possession route
Identify the legal reason
Check facts and compliance
Serve Section 8 correctly
Apply if the tenant remains
Identify the legal ground
A landlord must have a permitted reason, known as a ground for possession. Examples include moving into the property, selling it, rent arrears, serious tenancy breaches, property damage or antisocial behaviour. Each ground has its own conditions.
Check the tenancy and compliance record
Confirm the tenancy type, deposit protection, licence position and evidence for the ground. From 1 May 2026, assured shorthold tenancies became assured periodic tenancies and Section 21 notices are no longer available for private assured tenancies.
Serve the correct Section 8 notice
State every ground relied on and give at least the minimum notice required for those grounds. Notice periods vary and can change. Keep proof showing the notice, method of service and date received.
- Correct tenant and property details
- Valid possession ground
- Required supporting facts
- Correct notice period
- Proof of service
Use the court process if needed
If the tenant remains after the notice period, apply to court for a possession order. A landlord cannot remove the tenant by force or change the locks. Seek legal advice where the ground, evidence or service of notice is uncertain.
