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How to Fight an Eviction
Defences against eviction, getting legal help, and what to say in court.
12 min readLast updated: 15 January 2025
You may be able to challenge an eviction if the notice is invalid, if there are procedural errors, or if you have other defences. Get advice as soon as possible.
Common Defences
- Eviction notice invalid (wrong form, wrong dates, not properly served)
- Deposit not protected (blocks Section 21)
- Required documents not provided (gas certificate, EPC, How to Rent)
- Retaliatory eviction (evicting because you complained about repairs)
- Discrimination (evicting for an illegal reason)
- Rent arrears due to housing benefit delays (for Ground 8)
Getting Help
- Contact Shelter's free helpline: 0808 800 4444
- Visit Citizens Advice for help with court forms
- Check if you qualify for legal aid (for housing cases)
- Look for local law centres offering free housing advice
- Ask about the duty solicitor scheme at court
Even if you can't stop the eviction, you may be able to delay it. Courts can give extra time in hardship cases, especially if you have children or health issues.
Official Sources
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