Rent arrears advice: protecting your home when you fall behind
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Quick answer: Rent is a priority debt. If you are behind, contact your landlord or council immediately to negotiate a repayment plan. Free housing advice from Shelter or Citizens Advice can help you understand your rights and prevent eviction.
Falling behind on rent puts your home at risk. Landlords can seek possession through the courts, and social landlords may accelerate eviction proceedings. But tenants have rights, and most landlords prefer a payment plan over eviction. Acting early — before court proceedings begin — gives you the most options.
Act before court proceedings
Contact your landlord as soon as you know you will struggle. Propose a realistic repayment plan for arrears alongside ongoing rent.
Check whether you qualify for the housing element of Universal Credit or Housing Benefit. A claim can cover your rent and help clear arrears.
The eviction process
Private landlords must use a Section 8 notice citing rent arrears (or another valid ground) — Section 21 no-fault evictions ended in England on 1 May 2026. Social landlords follow similar but often longer procedures.
If you do not leave, the landlord applies to court. You can attend the hearing and present your repayment plan. Courts may grant possession but suspend it on condition you pay.
Free help available
Shelter provides free housing advice by phone (0808 800 4444), online chat, and local services. They can help negotiate with landlords and represent you at court.
Citizens Advice can help with benefit claims, debt advice, and understanding your tenancy rights.
If you receive a court summons, do not ignore it. Attend the hearing — courts are often willing to give you time to pay if you show a genuine plan.
Common questions
Can my landlord evict me without going to court?
No. Eviction without a court order is illegal. Landlords must follow the legal process even if you are in significant arrears.
Will rent arrears affect my credit score?
Private landlord arrears are not usually reported to credit agencies. Social landlord arrears may be. Both can result in court judgments that appear on your file.
Can I include rent arrears in a debt solution?
Ongoing rent must be paid as a priority expense in any debt solution. Arrears may be included in a DMP, but eviction risk means rent should be prioritised above almost everything.