The most common reason landlords seek to evict their tenants is on the ground of rent arrears.

There are many reasons tenants may fall into arrears with their rent, such as irregular earnings, various reasons for housing benefit not being paid on time, and poor budgeting.

1. Irregular earnings

Irregular earnings often impact on rent accounts with irregular rent payments. With many tenants working zero hours’ contracts, or fixed term contracts, and earnings varying week to week and month to month - rent payments can frequently be missed resulting in arrears building up. Budgeting, and saving in times of plenty are key to resolving this situation.

2. Housing benefit gap due to “non-dependent” adults living in the tenancy

Housing benefit will be reduced where adults (other than the tenant, and including adult children) live in the tenancy. It is essential that the tenant make such non-dependent adults aware, and secure a contribution from them towards rent. Tenants are often oblivious to the financial impact once their children become adults. All tenants should therefore be sure to read letters from their landlords and the housing benefit office carefully, and make adjustments within their households accordingly.

3. Housing benefit gap due to Universal Credit application

Sadly, delays in the payment of housing benefit continue despite widespread criticism of the universal credit system. While social landlords may be tolerant of the delay in the current system, private landlords may be less tolerant. All tenants would be wise to let their landlords know in advance.

4. Poor budgeting

If you have been struggling to manage your money - prepare a budget. Write down a list of your income and a list of essential expenditure each month. Rent should be top of that list. Work out how much you can actually afford to spend once all of your essential bills are paid, and don’t spend more than that. As much as it is tempting to spend money on life’s luxuries, remember - the roof over our heads is the biggest luxury of all.

Whatever your situation, if you fall into arrears with your rent, you may receive a court summons.

If you receive a court summons seeking your eviction, you should seek advice from a solicitor urgently.

Almost every situation can be resolved if advice is taken on board.