Updated October 2026
In short: If you're facing eviction, contact your council's housing options team as soon as you get notice. Councils in England must help if you're threatened with homelessness within 56 days, and earlier contact gives more time to find a home. A valid notice and a court order are needed before you can be lawfully evicted, so don't leave before getting advice.
What to do, in order
| 1 | Check the notice Is it valid? Since 1 May 2026, Section 21 no-fault notices can't be used in England. Get advice from Shelter or Citizens Advice. |
| 2 | Contact the council Ask for help under the prevention duty. Bring your notice, ID and income details. |
| 3 | Look for a new home Start searching straight away, including private rentals. |
| 4 | Line up money for moving Ask about deposit schemes, Discretionary Housing Payments and budgeting advances. |
| 5 | Don't ignore court papers Respond to any possession claim and attend hearings. |
| Council duty | What it means |
|---|---|
| Prevention duty (56 days) | Help to keep your home or find another before you become homeless |
| Relief duty | Help to secure accommodation if you're already homeless |
| Main housing duty | Longer-term accommodation for eligible households in priority need |
Bring to the council
- Your notice or court papers
- ID and immigration documents
- Proof of income or benefits
- Tenancy agreement and rent statements
- Any medical or support evidence
How Fraser Bond helps
- Fast access to private rentals, including benefit-friendly landlords
- Help with documents and references
- Working with council deposit schemes where available
Related guides
- Are eviction notices public record?
- How to find DSS rental properties in London
- Council housing in London
Fraser Bond services: DSS & benefit-friendly rentals · Rental · Contact us
