Ending a tenancy
If you are at risk of losing your home, or you are worried about your tenancy, we are here to help. This page explains our approach to eviction, the support we may offer, and the steps we will take before eviction is considered.
Our approach to eviction
We aim to help tenants keep their tenancy wherever possible. Eviction is always a last resort.
Where there is a problem with a tenancy, we will try to understand what has happened, offer advice and look at practical steps to help resolve any issues.
Supporting tenants to stay in their home
Our focus is on helping tenants maintain a successful tenancy.
Where there is a concern, such as a breach of tenancy conditions, we will usually speak with the tenant first. This may include offering guidance, discussing what needs to change and helping the tenant access support from Bernicia or other organisations.
When eviction may be considered
Eviction is only considered when serious issues have not been resolved after reasonable steps have been taken.
This may include:
- serious criminal activity
- significant risks to other people
- repeated breaches of tenancy conditions
In some cases, we may need to act more quickly if there is a serious risk to safety or if the situation is not appropriate to resolve in another way.
How we will communicate
If there are concerns about a tenancy, we will explain:
- what the issue is
- what could happen next
- what steps may help put things right
Where appropriate, the tenant will have the chance to respond, ask questions and share any personal circumstances that may affect their ability to engage with us.
Taking individual needs into account
We understand that every tenant’s situation is different.
We will take account of vulnerability, safeguarding concerns and any other relevant circumstances. Where appropriate, reasonable adjustments will be made to help tenants access services and meet their tenancy responsibilities.
Working with other services
If safeguarding concerns are identified during eviction action, including concerns about children or vulnerable people in the household, we may contact the relevant local authority. This will be done in line with legal responsibilities.
Where permission has been given, we may also share information with other services to help provide support and reduce the risk of homelessness.
Fair and proportionate action
Any action taken will be based on the seriousness of the issue and the circumstances involved.
We will usually only move towards eviction action after taking reasonable steps to resolve the problem. However, immediate action may be needed where there is a serious risk to others or serious misconduct has taken place.
Following the law
All eviction action is carried out in line with housing law and relevant regulatory requirements.
We will make sure the correct legal process is followed at every stage.