Ground 14 covers nuisance to neighbours and illegal use. Gather evidence from witnesses and authorities.
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Ground 14 is a discretionary possession ground for antisocial behaviour, nuisance, or using the property for illegal purposes. From May 2026, tribunals will carefully assess evidence of the behaviour's impact on neighbours and the local community. You need witness statements, authority reports, or evidence of illegal activity. The tribunal must consider whether possession is reasonable. Ground 14 is often combined with other grounds. Notice period is 4 weeks if for antisocial behaviour, or longer for other nuisances.
Witness statements from neighbours or other affected parties
Police reports, crime reference numbers, or local authority reports
Evidence of nuisance (noise complaint logs, photos, videos)
Communication with tenant about the behaviour
Tenancy agreement clauses prohibiting the behaviour
Notice of seeking possession (minimum 4 weeks for antisocial behaviour)
Evidence of attempts to resolve the issue before possession action
Why this matters: Missing or incomplete evidence can lead to case dismissal, costing months of unpaid rent and legal fees. Tribunals require clear, organized documentation that proves all requirements are met.
4 weeks
Minimum required
Section 8 Notice
Notice of Seeking Possession
Hand delivered or first-class post
Proof of service required
Use Locastica to gather and organize the evidence typically needed for Ground 14: Antisocial Behaviour:
All information is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified solicitor for specific legal guidance.
Ground 14 is a discretionary possession ground for tenants who cause nuisance, annoyance, or use the property for illegal or immoral purposes. It covers antisocial behaviour affecting neighbours, illegal drug activity, excessive noise, harassment, and other conduct breaching the tenancy. The tribunal decides if possession is reasonable based on the evidence.
You need: (1) witness statements from affected neighbours, (2) police reports or crime reference numbers, (3) local authority reports (environmental health, noise team), (4) dated logs of incidents, (5) evidence you warned the tenant and tried to resolve it, and (6) proof the behaviour breaches the tenancy agreement. Vague complaints without evidence are not enough.
It must be serious enough that the tribunal considers possession reasonable. Examples that typically qualify: repeated loud parties affecting neighbours' sleep, drug dealing, violence or threats, persistent harassment, using the property for prostitution. Minor one-off complaints (e.g., single noise complaint) are unlikely to succeed.
Only if the damage is part of antisocial behaviour (e.g., violent outbursts damaging walls). For general property damage or deterioration, use Ground 13 (deterioration due to neglect or waste). Ground 14 focuses on behaviour affecting others (neighbours, community), not just the landlord.
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