Can Landlords Help You Find Alternative Housing in England?

If you are renting in England and face eviction or your tenancy is ending, you may wonder if your landlord has any duty or interest in helping you find a new home. While landlords must follow clear legal procedures when ending a tenancy, their obligation to assist you with alternative accommodation is more limited. This guide explains what support you can expect, your rights under current English law, and practical steps you can take when searching for new housing.

Are Landlords Legally Required to Help You Find New Housing?

In England, landlords are not legally obligated to help tenants find alternative accommodation when a tenancy ends or after eviction. Their primary legal responsibilities are to:

• Serve appropriate notice (such as a Section 21 or Section 8 notice) following the Housing Act 1988
• Observe proper eviction and court procedures if you do not leave after notice
• Handle your deposit under a government-approved tenancy deposit scheme

In practice, some landlords or letting agents may offer support to long-standing or reliable tenants, such as informing you about available rental properties. However, this is on a voluntary basis and is not part of their legal duties.

What Can Your Landlord Do to Support You?

While not required by law, some landlords may:

• Provide references for future landlords or letting agents
• Inform you about other properties they own or manage
• Give you extra notice, if possible, allowing more time to find a new place
• Recommend local letting agents or websites

It can be helpful to ask your landlord or lettings agent about potential support if your tenancy is ending.

What to Do If You're Facing Eviction or Homelessness

If you have received a valid notice or court order to leave, or you think you'll be homeless soon, you can seek assistance:

• Contact your local council’s housing or homelessness service as soon as possible
• Gather all documentation, including your tenancy agreement, eviction notices (Section 21 or Section 8 notices), and correspondence

Your council has a legal duty under the Homelessness Reduction Act 2017 to help prevent homelessness and may provide a personal housing plan, temporary accommodation, or help you secure a new tenancy if you meet the criteria.

Key Official Forms

• Section 21 Notice (Form 6A): Used by landlords to end an assured shorthold tenancy without giving a reason. Renters should check the notice period and validity. Download and details found at the official government form page.
• Section 8 Notice: Allows landlords to seek possession if tenants have breached the tenancy agreement (e.g., rent arrears). Make sure you understand the grounds stated. Guide available on the official GOV.UK service.
• Homelessness Application: If threatened with homelessness, you can apply to your local council using their online form or in person. Each council will have its own process, but the official overview is at GOV.UK homelessness guidance.

For eviction disputes, proceedings are handled by the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) - Residential Property, which deals with certain residential tenancy matters in England.

Your Rights and Key Legislation

Your main rights and protections as a tenant in England are found in the:

• Housing Act 1988 – governs private tenancies and eviction procedures
• Homelessness Reduction Act 2017 – outlines council duties for people threatened with homelessness
• Housing and Planning Act 2016 – includes various housing rights and enforcement measures

Council support is based on your eligibility and priority need (such as having children or medical needs) as defined in these acts.

What to Do Next: Action Steps

• Check your notice: Make sure any notice you receive is valid using forms linked above.
• Seek written references: Ask your current landlord for a written reference to help with future rentals.
• Apply early for council support: Visit your local council or apply online if you are at risk of homelessness.
• Attend tribunal hearings (if applicable): If you dispute an eviction notice, be prepared for possible hearings at the First-tier Tribunal.
• Keep all records: Save all communications, notices, and forms for your own protection.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are landlords in England required to help tenants find new accommodation?
   No, landlords are not legally required to help tenants find alternative housing. Their responsibilities are mainly to serve legal notices and follow correct procedures.
2. What support can I expect from my landlord if I’m being evicted?
   Some landlords may offer practical help, like providing references or letting you know about other available properties, but this is not guaranteed by law.
3. What should I do if I can’t find housing before my eviction date?
   Contact your local council as early as possible for help. Councils have a duty to assist people who are at risk of homelessness and may provide a personal housing plan or emergency accommodation.
4. How do I know if my eviction notice is valid?
   Check that the notice is on the correct form (such as Section 21 Form 6A), meets the notice period, and follows the rules in the Housing Act 1988. See GOV.UK for official forms and guidance.
5. Which tribunal handles tenancy disputes in England?
   The First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) - Residential Property deals with certain disputes about residential tenancies and eviction appeals.

Key Takeaways

• Landlords in England do not have a legal duty to help you find new housing, but some may support you voluntarily.
• If you’re at risk of losing your home, your main source of official support is the local council under the Homelessness Reduction Act 2017.
• Knowing your legal rights and available forms can help you navigate this challenging situation more confidently.

Remember, proactive steps and early contact with your council or housing adviser increase your chances of finding suitable accommodation.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• GOV.UK Private Renting Guidance
• Homelessness Help from Your Council
• Shelter England – Housing Advice
• Citizens Advice – Housing Problems
• First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) – Residential Tenancies

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1. Housing Act 1988 (legislation.gov.uk)
2. Homelessness Help from Council (GOV.UK)
3. Assured Tenancy Forms (GOV.UK)
4. First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) Residential Property
5. Homelessness Reduction Act 2017 (legislation.gov.uk)

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