Updated October 2026 · Fraser Bond
Landlords · Antisocial behaviour
Drugs at your rental property
Ground 14nuisance
Ground 7Aserious ASB
Police& closure orders
Evidencekey
In short: If a tenant is using your property for illegal purposes such as dealing drugs, you can seek possession under Ground 14 (nuisance, or using the property for illegal purposes), where proceedings can start soon after notice. If the tenant has been convicted of certain serious offences or breached an ASB injunction, the mandatory Ground 7A may apply. Report concerns to the police; police and councils can also seek closure orders for premises linked to serious nuisance. Keep evidence and don't take matters into your own hands.
Steps
1
Report to policeAnd keep incident numbers.
2
Gather evidenceNeighbour statements, photos, police reports.
3
Serve noticeSection 8 on Ground 14 and/or 7A.
4
Apply to courtGround 14 is discretionary; 7A is mandatory if met.
Frequently asked questions
Is drug use grounds for eviction?
Using the property for illegal purposes can be.
Can I be liable?
Landlords can face problems if they knowingly allow drug activity.
