Eviction

Eviction is when you are made to leave your accommodation. It usually only happens after lots of warnings and discussions. If you are faced with eviction for any reason, seek advice straight away. Go to the Council, Housing Aid, CAB or phone a helpline for advice on your rights and responsibilities - remember to take a copy of your tenancy agreement and any letters with you to meetings.

The main reasons for being evicted from your home are:

• Not paying your rent
• Anti-social behaviour
• The agreed length of tenancy is at an end

Things usually only get this serious after you have been given warnings and offered support in dealing with the issue that is causing problems for your tenancy. Whatever you do, don't ignore the warnings.

If you have rent arrears these could be paid off slowly - speak to your landlord or housing officer, explain that you have rent arrears but you want to do something about it. It might be that you are entitled to money you aren't claiming, or that you need support to budget your money. Speak to Debtline or the Citizen's Advice Bureau, they'll help you work out a way of staying on top of  your debts.

If your anti-social behaviour has lead to you being faced with eviction it is likely that you have had several warnings. If you really want to keep your place, or feel like you have been treated unfairly, speak to your housing officer. Ask what support is available for you - a support worker or mediator might help - and accept the help.

If you have a tenancy agreement, your landlord cannot evict you without a court order. If you feel that you are being threatened or harrassed to leave a property without due notice, you should seek legal advice from a housing aid adviser.

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