How to handle a nightmare tenant who needs to be evicted?

How to handle a nightmare tenant who needs to be evicted?

0:01 AM, 21st January 2025, About 4 hours ago

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Hello all, I am in a bit of trap and struggling to find a way out.

When my ex-tenant wanted to move out back in 2022, he recommended a couple who were neighbours and willing to move in. It was easy for all of us, and since I didn’t have much experience as a landlord, I just drafted a single-page AST to start. At that time, I didn’t give the tenants an EPC or How to Rent guide (no gas in the property). I didn’t realise how important these documents were.

Since then, only on two occasions have they paid rent on time, and other than that, it’s always very late. Every few months, they started splitting the rent, so I only get half from them on two separate payments, all delayed at different dates. Every other month, they find an excuse to replace something and deduct the cost from the rent.

The worst of all, they cut down two of my three apple trees, uprooted a grapevine and a pear tree, saying excuses like the trees were blocking the sun and growing mould. I didn’t know how to react, I was just so shocked and upset.

I don’t know what to do, as I just want to get them out. Last September, I created a proper AST for 6 months to end in March 2025 and provided them with the necessary EPC, How to Rent guide, etc.

Last week, I asked for legal help to see if I could serve a Section 21 notice now, but after reviewing all the documents, the solicitor said that because I didn’t supply the EPC when the tenancy originally started back in 2022, I can’t rely on Section 21!

Also, Section 8 is out of the question because they pay, but it’s always late. I didn’t increase the rent at all, and it’s been the same as back in 2022.

I’m not sure what options I have. I’m thinking of demanding market rent when the tenancy ends in March 2025 on a new agreement, which might force their hand. I don’t think they will agree to a fair rent after paying so low for years. If they refuse to sign a new AST with the revised rent, could that be a good route?

Many thanks in advance for all your advise.

Basheer


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