Ground 5 allows possession for religious housing needs. Prove property required for minister.
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Ground 5 is a discretionary possession ground when the property is needed for a minister of religion. The property must be held for that purpose by a religious organization or trust. This is a niche ground rarely used. From May 2026, tribunals require evidence the property is genuinely needed for a minister and that the letting was intended to be temporary until needed. Notice period is 4 weeks.
Evidence property is held for religious purposes
Documentation showing property intended for ministers
Proof a minister now requires the property
Religious organization confirmation
Notice of seeking possession (minimum 4 weeks)
Tenancy agreement stating temporary nature of letting
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 5: Minister of Religion:
All information is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified solicitor for specific legal guidance.
Ground 5 is a discretionary possession ground used when a property held for occupation by a minister of religion is required for that purpose. It only applies if the property is owned or held by a religious organization or trust for housing ministers. The tribunal decides if possession is reasonable, considering the need for ministerial housing.
Religious organizations, trusts, or institutions that own property for housing ministers of religion. Individual landlords cannot use Ground 5 unless they hold the property in trust for religious purposes. The property must be designated for ministerial housing, not just owned by a religious entity.
You need: (1) proof the property is held for ministers (trust deed, organizational documents), (2) evidence a minister now requires it (appointment letter, housing need), (3) confirmation from religious body, (4) proof the letting was temporary until needed for a minister. Tribunals require clear connection between property purpose and current need.
Discretionary ground for tenancy obtained by false statement
Discretionary ground for charity to redevelop property
Mandatory ground when tenant has no right to rent due to immigration status
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