Evictions are a last resort, but sometimes they’re necessary when issues like unpaid rent or serious breaches of tenancy arise. If you’re a landlord in Stoke-on-Trent wondering how long it takes to evict a tenant, here’s what to expect.
The timeline to evict a tenant can vary depending on the situation, but here’s a general overview of the process:
1. Serving Notice
The first step to evict a tenant is serving the correct notice. Most commonly, landlords use a Section 8 or Section 21 notice.
- Section 8 is used when a tenant has breached the tenancy (e.g., rent arrears).
- Section 21 is a “no fault” eviction requiring at least two months’ notice.
2. Waiting Period
After the notice is served, landlords must wait for the notice period to expire. This can take 2–3 months, depending on the notice type.
3. Court Proceedings
If the tenant does not leave after the notice period, you’ll need to apply to court to evict a tenant formally. The process to get a possession order usually takes 6–8 weeks, depending on court availability.
4. Bailiff Action
Once a possession order is granted, tenants are usually given 14 days to leave. If they don’t, landlords can request bailiff involvement, which can add another few weeks.
In total, it can take around 4–6 months to evict a tenant through the courts. The process can be shorter or longer depending on how smoothly things go and how busy the courts are.
At Belvoir Stoke-on-Trent, we always aim to prevent disputes before they escalate. But when action is necessary, we guide landlords through every step of how to evict a tenant safely and legally.
Need advice about managing difficult tenancies? Our expert lettings team is here to support you.
