Understanding Ground 6: Eviction for Substantial Works or Redevelopment

29th April 2025

Ground 6 of the Housing Act 1988 provides landlords with a legal basis to regain possession of a property if they intend to carry out substantial redevelopment or refurbishment that would require vacant possession. It is a mandatory ground for possession, meaning that if the landlord can prove the conditions are met, the court must grant possession.

However, using Ground 6 comes with strict requirements and should not be taken lightly.

Key Points:

• Ground 6 applies when the landlord needs possession of the property because significant building works are planned.

• The work must be so extensive that the tenant cannot reasonably stay in the property while the work is being carried out.

• Examples of qualifying works include:

  • Major structural changes

  • Extensive rebuilding

  • Conversions that require the entire property to be vacant

• Minor repairs, cosmetic improvements, or upgrades (like painting or installing a new kitchen) do not qualify.

• Compensation: If the tenant has lived in the property for at least two years, they are entitled to compensation equivalent to one month’s rent (Shelter England).

• Notice Period: The landlord must serve the tenant with a minimum of four months’ notice before applying to court, under the current rules as of 2024 (GOV.UK – Guidance on Eviction Notices).

• Timing: Landlords cannot use Ground 6 if they, or a predecessor in title (previous owner/landlord), purchased the property after the tenancy started, unless the building works were specifically planned at the time of purchase.

Practical Considerations:

• Strong evidence is needed, such as:

  • Architect’s plans

  • Planning permission documents

  • Building contractor estimates

• Courts will scrutinize Ground 6 claims carefully, as eviction is a serious matter.

• If uncertain about proceeding under Ground 6, it’s often better to negotiate a commercial agreement with tenants — offering moving expenses or other incentives — to avoid costly disputes (NRLA – National Residential Landlords Association).