Will I get evicted for 1 missed rent?
Missing a rent payment can feel like a disaster, especially when you’re already worried about money. It’s easy to assume the worst – that one missed rent payment could mean eviction and losing your home. But the reality is a bit more complicated. While falling behind on rent is serious, there are steps you can take and protections in place that might help.
This guide will explain how eviction works in the UK, what happens after a missed payment, and most importantly, where to get help if you’re struggling to pay rent.
What happens if I miss one rent payment?
If you’ve missed one rent payment, don’t panic. In most cases, you won’t be evicted straight away. Landlords are generally expected to give you a chance to catch up on missed rent before taking formal action.
However, your landlord is legally allowed to begin the missed rent eviction process if you fall into rent arrears and in some cases, they may act quickly. That’s why it’s important to understand your rights and take early steps to address the situation.
Understanding eviction rules UK tenants should know
The eviction process in the UK depends on the type of tenancy you have. Most private renters are on an assured shorthold tenancy (AST), which allows landlords to evict tenants using a formal legal process.
There are two main routes to eviction under an AST:
- Section 8 notice
Used when the tenant has broken the terms of the tenancy, including falling into rent arrears. Your landlord must give a reason and usually needs to wait until you owe at least two months’ rent before starting proceedings.
- Section 21 notice
Sometimes called a ‘no-fault’ eviction. Your landlord doesn’t have to give a reason but must follow strict rules and notice periods.
Once you receive a notice, you’ll usually have a period of time to pay what you owe or leave the property. If you don’t, your landlord can apply to the court for a possession order. Only the court can decide if you have to leave your home, not the landlord alone.
How many missed rent payments before eviction?
Landlords usually wait until you are at least two months in arrears before taking legal action, especially under a Section 8 notice. That means if you’ve only missed one rent payment, you’re not likely to be taken to court immediately.
That said, some landlords may issue a warning or request immediate repayment after a single missed rent, particularly if it’s not the first time. Others may try to agree a repayment plan with you informally before starting official proceedings.
Either way, it’s best to act quickly. The sooner you talk to your landlord and seek advice, the more options you’re likely to have.
What is the eviction process for rent arrears?
If you’ve missed multiple rent payments and your landlord begins formal eviction proceedings, here’s what typically happens:
- Notice served
Your landlord gives you a written eviction notice (Section 8 or Section 21).
- Court application
If you don’t pay or leave, your landlord can apply to court for a possession order.
- Court hearing
You’ll be given a date to explain your situation to a judge.
- Possession order granted
If the court agrees with your landlord, you’ll receive a date by which you must leave.
- Eviction enforced
If you don’t leave by the date given, your landlord can ask bailiffs to carry out the eviction.
This process takes time. In many cases, it takes several weeks or even months to reach the final stage, giving you time to act.
Will a payment plan stop eviction?
It might. If you speak to your landlord early and show you’re willing to pay back what you owe, they may agree to a payment plan. Many landlords would prefer to avoid court and simply receive what’s owed over time.
Even if your landlord refuses, a court may be more sympathetic if you’ve shown willingness to repay. Having a budget in place and evidence of your efforts can help you argue your case.
If rent arrears are just one part of a wider debt problem, a debt solution like a Debt Management Plan (DMP), may free up money to keep up with rent.
What should I do if I can’t pay my rent?
There are practical steps you can take if you’re behind or know you’re about to fall behind:
- Speak to your landlord – be honest about your situation. They may agree to reduced or delayed payments.
- Check if you’re entitled to benefits – Universal Credit or Housing Benefit might help cover your rent.
- Apply for a Discretionary Housing Payment (DHP) – local councils offer this short-term support if you’re struggling.
- Prioritise your rent – it’s a priority debt because it puts your home at risk so should be prioritised over non-priority debts.
- Talk to a debt adviser – they can help you assess your situation and recommend the right path.
What if I’ve already received an eviction notice?
Receiving a notice doesn’t mean you’ll be forced out overnight. You still have time to act:
- Check the notice carefully – make sure it follows the correct process.
- Seek legal advice – especially if you think the eviction is unfair or unlawful.
- Try to negotiate – if you can pay some or all of what’s owed, your landlord might agree to withdraw the notice.
If things have progressed to court, you may still be able to avoid eviction by attending the hearing and presenting your case. Judges often prefer to see tenants stay in their homes if repayment is realistic.
When should I get help?
If you’re behind on rent or struggling to make ends meet, don’t wait until things spiral. Early action gives you more control and more options. You can get free, impartial debt advice from MoneyHelper.
Or, get in touch with a MoneyPlus debt expert. We’ve been helping people with debt for over 25 years. While we don’t offer legal advice, we can help you:
- Understand how rent fits into your wider financial picture
- Build a budget that prioritises essential costs
- Explore formal debt solutions to reduce outgoings.
If you need support with eviction for rent arrears, we can help you understand what to do next.
