Landlords must use new eviction forms from October 1

By Ryan Bembridge

Landlords have to use new versions of Section 8 and Section 21 forms from 1 October 2021 – otherwise eviction notices not served will be invalid.

The changes coincide with eviction notice periods returning to pre-pandemic levels, to two months for Section 21 notices and two weeks for Section 8.

The notes from the new version of Form 3 (Section 8) will move onto a separate document, which will be uploaded alongside the form and contain information for the tenant at the start of the forms.

The new forms should be downloadable from gov.uk from 1 October 2021.

The government has the power to reinstate longer notice periods as an emergency measure until 25 March 2022.

Meanwhile there are some exceptions to the new eviction rules.

As of 4 May 2021 Debt Respite Scheme (Breathing Space) regulations mean anyone with problems with debt are protected from creditors like landlords for 60 days.

Meanwhile those who are receiving treatment for mental health issues are protected for the duration of that treatment, plus 30 days.

The rules mean there is a ban on the collection of debt via a Section 8 Notice on ground 8, 10 and 11.

Section 8 notices on other grounds and Section 21 notices are unaffected.

Breathing Space details are included on Form 3 and Form 6A.