⚠️ Important Notice: Section 21 is Abolished from 1 May 2026
As a result of the Renters' Rights Act, Section 21 "no-fault" evictions will be abolished from 1 May 2026. After this date, Section 21 will no longer be applicable and landlords will need to rely on Section 8 grounds for possession instead. We will be updating this page after 1 May 2026 to reflect the new legal position.
Rent Arrears & Debt Recovery
Specialist rent arrears solicitors for landlords — Section 8 notice rent arrears, pre-action letters, money claims, County Court Judgments and enforcement.
Our approach is proportionate and commercially realistic. As experienced landlord and tenant solicitors, we will advise honestly on the prospects of recovery before you commit to costs.
How We Recover Rent Arrears
Section 8 Notice
Where the tenant is still in the property, we serve a Section 8 notice on the correct grounds — Ground 8 (mandatory) for arrears of two months or more.
Pre-Action Letter
A formal letter before action setting out the debt and demanding payment. Often resolves matters without court proceedings.
Money Claim
Issuing a money claim at court for the outstanding rent and any associated costs.
CCJ & Enforcement
Obtaining a County Court Judgment and enforcing through attachment of earnings, charging orders or High Court enforcement.
Our Approach
Recovering rent arrears requires a proportionate and commercially realistic approach. Not every debt is worth pursuing through the courts — we will advise you honestly on the prospects of recovery before you commit to costs.
Where a tenant has assets or income, we can pursue the debt aggressively. Where recovery is unlikely, we will tell you clearly rather than run up costs on a hopeless case.
We can also combine debt recovery with possession proceedings where the tenant is still in the property — using a Section 8 notice on rent arrears grounds to recover both the arrears and the property simultaneously.
Important Note
Combining Possession & Debt Recovery
Where a tenant owes rent and is still in the property, we can pursue possession and debt recovery simultaneously — using Section 8 grounds based on rent arrears. Ground 8 is mandatory where arrears are at least two months at both the notice date and the hearing date.
Learn about evictionsFAQs
Common Questions About Rent Arrears
What is a Section 8 notice for rent arrears?
A Section 8 notice is served where a tenant has breached the tenancy — most commonly rent arrears. Ground 8 (mandatory) applies where arrears are at least two months at the date of the notice and the date of the hearing. Ground 10 and 11 are discretionary grounds for smaller arrears. We advise on the correct grounds and serve the notice correctly to avoid invalidity.
Can I recover rent arrears after the tenant has left?
Yes. Where a tenant has vacated leaving rent arrears, we can pursue a money claim for the outstanding debt. We will advise honestly on the prospects of recovery before you commit to costs — not every debt is worth pursuing through the courts.
Can I combine possession proceedings with a rent arrears claim?
Yes. Where a tenant owes rent and is still in the property, we can pursue possession and debt recovery simultaneously — using Section 8 grounds based on rent arrears. This is often the most cost-effective approach.
What enforcement options are available after a County Court Judgment?
After obtaining a CCJ, enforcement options include attachment of earnings (deducting from wages), charging orders (securing the debt against property), third party debt orders (freezing bank accounts) and High Court enforcement. We advise on the most appropriate option based on the tenant's circumstances.
Our Team
Speak to a Member of Our Team
Jane Clutton
Director & Solicitor
Jane brings almost 30 years' experience to rent arrears and debt recovery matters. She gives honest, commercially realistic advice on the prospects of recovery before you commit to costs — and where recovery is viable, she pursues it effectively. Her straightforward approach means you always know where you stand.
Discuss Your Rent Arrears Matter
Tell us about the arrears and we will advise on the best route forward.
Prefer to call? 01244 757352