Glossary

Possession order

Plain-English definition

A court order giving a landlord the right to take back their property. A standard possession order does not automatically remove you. A bailiff's warrant is needed for physical removal. You should get legal advice urgently if you receive one.

Related terms

Section 8 notice

A formal eviction notice a landlord must serve before applying to court under one of the legal grounds in Schedule 2 of the Housing Act 1988. Ground 8 (two months' rent arrears) is mandatory; the court must grant possession if it is proven.

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By: Support for Tenants editorial team

Last updated: 15 June 2026

Reviewed against current housing law for England and Wales as at 15 June 2026. Checked by our SRA-regulated panel solicitors. This is general information, not legal advice for your specific case. Any compensation figures or ranges shown are illustrative only and not guaranteed; every case is different.

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