How much rent arrears do I need to evict?
Serious arrears grounds usually require the arrears to exist at both notice and hearing.
3 min read · Updated 2 August 2026
Overview
Mandatory arrears grounds require a threshold level of arrears to exist when the notice is served and again at the hearing date. If the tenant reduces the arrears below the threshold before the hearing, the mandatory ground fails and the court considers only the discretionary ground.
Practical guidance
- Keep a running rent statement showing every payment and the date received.
- Engage early — a written payment plan is strong evidence of reasonableness if you later use a discretionary ground.
- Check for housing benefit or Universal Credit delays before treating arrears as deliberate.
Related content
General information for UK landlords and letting agents, not legal advice. Rules differ across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland — check your local requirements or take advice before acting.