Home / Glossary / Mandatory grounds for possession
What is Mandatory grounds for possession?
Last verified 31 October 2026
Mandatory grounds for possession are the reasons for possession in England where a court must grant possession if the landlord proves the ground. Examples include Ground 1 (landlord or family moving in), Ground 1A (sale), Ground 2 (sale by a mortgagee), Ground 6 (redevelopment) and Ground 8 (rent arrears).
Why it matters to landlords
Notice periods differ by ground. For example, grounds 1, 1A, 2 and 6 need 4 months, ground 7 (death of the tenant) 2 months, and ground 8 (rent arrears) 4 weeks. Ground 7A (severe antisocial or criminal behaviour) lets you apply to court immediately. For most grounds you must show the deposit was protected in an approved scheme and the prescribed information was given.
The ground must still be proved in court, so keep evidence. Grounds 1 and 1A cannot be used until 12 months after the tenancy started. Discretionary grounds work differently because the court asks whether possession is reasonable. These rules are for England. Scotland has its own grounds and Wales uses occupation contracts.
Example
Anita wants to sell her let flat in 2027. The tenancy began in January 2026, so she waits until after the 12 month period and serves notice on Ground 1A with 4 months' notice. Because it is a mandatory ground, the court must award possession if she proves it and has protected the deposit.
Related terms
- Discretionary grounds for possession
- Ground 1A (selling)
- Ground 8 (rent arrears)
- Section 8 notice
- Possession order