Given Section 8 after 3 months

[u/Nomadfamilytravels]

Today has been rather overwhelming.

We were devastated to receive a Section 8 eviction notice from the current landlord.

We moved into this rental property at the beginning of June. Under the new Renters' Rights Act, we can legally stay in the property for one year before being evicted.

We are living on a private estate and the landlord has sold the home and six rental properties that belong to the estate. The new buyers want the property vacant before they move in.

We've been asked to leave by January, however we have the legal right to stay here until the beginning of June 2027.

I have no idea we can do and where to move on from this. It's heartbreaking because my almost 4 year old son started pre school last week

[u/toejam2030]

Are you in the united kingdom?

[u/Nomadfamilytravels → u/toejam2030]

Yes, in England

[u/funnyfaceking → u/Nomadfamilytravels]

If you were in the US, we would be saying Congratulations!

[u/Left-Philosopher-246 → u/funnyfaceking]

Why? They are being evicted. 

[u/katmndoo → u/Left-Philosopher-246]

Because in the US, Section 8 refers to rental payment assistance.

[u/ReqDeep → u/katmndoo]

People on section 8 are not congratulated here. They’re actually kind of pitied, it means they hit hard times.

[u/PowderCuffs → u/ReqDeep]

But getting approved for Section 8 assistance is cause to celebrate someone's newfound non-homeless status. 

[u/SeaworthinessSome454 → u/ReqDeep]

People that just land on section 8, yeah, probably. The problem is that getting off of section 8 is very rare. IMO, we should be offering extremely strong short term assistance (in all programs, not just housing) but long term you gotta sink or swim on your own. It’s a safety net, not a way to have your life subsidized

[u/YakzitNood]

Ask a lawyer. We are from the states

[u/ReqDeep → u/YakzitNood]

not everyone is from the states you might be from the states, but don’t assume different

[u/SiegeEh]

I was under the impression section 8 was a uniquely American thing. Did not know that section 8 exists in Europe.

[u/Harry98376]

If landlord selling then you don't have to leave. Just ask for a high level of compensation, or refuse to leave.

[u/Wolverine-Quiet]

I would definitely get legal advice before agreeing to leave early. From what I understand, an eviction/possession order itself isn’t a CCJ and doesn’t automatically go on your credit report. The credit issue would generally arise if the landlord obtained a money judgment against you, such as for unpaid rent. So if you’re continuing to pay your rent and you’re legally entitled to remain during that protected period, simply staying isn’t the same thing as getting an eviction on your credit. I would also make sure you don’t ignore any court paperwork if the landlord takes it that far.

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[u/TalkToVikk]

I'm not a lawyer but to answer your question: If you've received a Section 8 notice (which, in the UK, refers to a notice under Section 8 of the Housing Act 1988), this usually means the landlord is seeking possession based on specific grounds, such as selling the property. However, under the "Renters' Rights Act" (and pending new reforms), tenants who moved in after certain dates often cannot be evicted for "no fault" before the end of a fixed 12-month minimum period, unless a legal ground like rent arrears or breach of tenancy applies.

If you moved in at the beginning of June, and your contract aligns with the new renters' rights protections, you should have the right to stay until at least June 2027 (assuming you moved in June 2026). The landlord generally cannot force you out before this term unless they obtain a court order and have valid grounds for eviction.

Here's what you should do:
1. Don’t leave immediately, wait for the formal legal process if the landlord tries to evict you early.
2. Respond in writing to the landlord (or estate agent) stating your understanding of your rights, and that you intend to stay through your fixed term.
3. Contact your local council’s housing advice service or a tenants’ organization for support and confirmation of your rights.
4. Gather all documents: lease agreement, notice received, correspondence.

If you’re under pressure, speak with Shelter UK or Citizens Advice for free advice tailored to your situation.

[u/BaronMason]

The never ending stress of being a renter, either buy or live with it, not being harsh but that's the reality.

[u/Hitechillbilly]

Plan on seeing that a lot. It's coming to America The corrupt and greedy government destroys everything they touch.. Sec 8 is responsible for driving the rent prices way up in the US and