RECEIVED AN EVICTION NOTICE?

Information for unpaid Carers

Caring responsibilities can make housing issues even more stressful.

If you receive an eviction notice, it’s important to know that you have rights and support is available.

This page explains what to do and where to get help.

What is an eviction notice?

What is an eviction notice?

An eviction notice is a formal document from your landlord asking you to leave your home. It is the first step in a legal process—it does not mean you have to leave immediately.

In most cases, eviction follows three stages:

  • Notice from your landlord
  • Court action
  • Eviction by bailiffs

This process can take time, and you may be able to stop or delay it.

Important: You do not have to leave straight away

Important: You do not have to leave straight away

Many people feel they must leave as soon as they receive notice—but this is not usually the case.

  • You can stay in your home until the legal process is followed
  • Only a court and bailiffs can evict you legally
  • If your landlord tries to force you out without this, it may be an illegal eviction

What happens next

If you are worried about losing your home, it can help to understand what happens next.  Knowing the steps can make the situation feel more manageable and less overwhelming.

The most common types in England are:

  • Section 21 notice – often called a ‘no fault’ eviction
  • Section 8 notice – usually given for a reason (e.g. rent arrears)

The type of notice affects:

  • How much time you have
  • Whether you can challenge it
  • What support is available

Make sure the notice is:

  • In writing
  • On the correct form
  • Giving the correct notice period

Your landlord must follow strict legal rules.

Check:

  • Dates are correct
  • Your name and address are correct
  • The correct notice period is given

If the notice is not valid, your landlord may have to start again.

If you feel able to, try to talk to your landlord:

  • There may be a misunderstanding
  • You may be able to agree a payment plan
  • Issues may be resolved without eviction

This can be especially helpful if the notice is due to rent arrears.

Do not wait until court action begins. Early advice can help you:

  • Understand your rights
  • Challenge the eviction
  • Find ways to stay in your home

You can contact:

  • Your local council housing team
  • Specialist housing advice services
  • Carer support organisations

Free advice is available and can make a big difference.

If you are at risk of losing your home, contact your local council as soon as possible.

They have a duty to:

  • Provide advice and support
  • Help prevent homelessness
  • Assess your situation

Let them know if you are an unpaid Carer, as this may affect the support you receive.

If the issue is not resolved:

  • Your landlord may apply to court
  • You will receive details of a hearing
  • You may be able to challenge the eviction

Even at this stage, eviction is not guaranteed. Courts can sometimes delay or stop eviction—especially if you take action early.

Support for Carers

Support for Carers

As a Carer, housing issues can affect both you and the person you care for.

You may need:

  • Help to maintain your caring role
  • Support with alternative housing
  • Advocacy during the eviction process

Let services know about your caring responsibilities so they can take this into account.

Click the link for information and advice if you are new to your caring role

If you are worried about homelessness

If you are worried about homelessness

You are not alone—support is available.

You may be entitled to:

  • Emergency accommodation
  • Help finding somewhere to live
  • Financial or practical support

Do not wait until you are evicted—seek help as soon as you receive notice.

Housing laws can change, and some parts of the Renters’ Rights Act are being introduced in stages. For example, from May 2026, new laws have strengthened renters’ rights.

Carers’ Support Service is here to make sure unpaid carers are seen, supported and never left to struggle alone.

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