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Eviction

Non-payment of rent is the most common reason for Portsmouth City Council to evict tenants. We have a duty to collect rent as the income we receive is vital to fund our housing services. We always take reasonable steps to resolve tenancy or rent arrear problems. However, if all else fails, we will apply to the courts to repossess a property.

Eviction is also possible if tenants breach any other aspect of their tenancy agreement.

Remember, if you are having difficulties paying your rent or are concerned about your tenancy agreement:

• contact your area office to speak to a member of staff
• get advice from a Citizens' Advice Bureau
• make regular rent payments, no matter how small they are

What happens if I get taken to court?

We recommend that tenants attend court and seek independent legal advice. Tenants can contact the local Citizens' Advice Bureau which offer free advice or a solicitor.

Once a possession order is obtained from the court, any application to vary the terms of the order or to obtain a stay of execution must be made to the court itself rather than to the council.

What happens if I am evicted?

If you are evicted you will have to find alternative accommodation for yourself and anyone else who is living with you.

The court will tell you the date and time that the bailiff will arrive. A representative from the council will also be there. The locks of the house will be changed and any of your belongings that are still there will be cleared.

There is no guarantee that the courts will not evict households with children.

The council or registered social landlords are not obliged to re-house those who are evicted for non-payment of rent.

Can I stop the eviction?

The earlier you take action or seek advice the better as it is more difficult to make agreements at a late stage. You may apply for the Warrant of Possession to be suspended. The court will then reconsider your case but may not agree to alter the decision.

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