Ground 6 allows possession for substantial refurbishment. Prove works cannot be done with tenant in situ.
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Ground 6 is used for substantial refurbishment, reconstruction, or demolition that cannot be carried out with the tenant in occupation. This is mandatory if you gave written notice before the tenancy that Ground 6 might be used. From May 2026, tribunals will require detailed evidence that works are genuinely substantial and cannot be completed while occupied. You cannot use Ground 6 simply to upgrade the property between tenancies. Notice period is 2 months.
Written notice given before tenancy started (stating Ground 6 may be used)
Signed tenancy agreement showing Ground 6 warning
Detailed specification of works to be carried out
Evidence works cannot be done with property occupied
Planning permission or building control approval (if applicable)
Contractor quotes or project timeline
Notice of seeking possession (minimum 2 months)
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.
8 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 6: Refurbishment:
All information is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified solicitor for specific legal guidance.
Ground 6 is a mandatory possession ground for substantial refurbishment, reconstruction, or demolition that cannot be carried out with the tenant living there. You must have given written notice before the tenancy that Ground 6 might be used. If you prove the works are substantial and require vacant possession, the tribunal must grant it.
Works must be more than routine repairs or cosmetic improvements. Examples: structural alterations, rewiring the entire property, complete bathroom/kitchen replacement requiring weeks of work, removing asbestos, or demolition. Painting, replacing carpets, or minor repairs do not qualify. Tribunals consider scope, duration, and whether works could reasonably be done with tenant in situ.
No. Ground 6 requires works that cannot be done while occupied. If works could wait until the tenancy ends naturally, or could be done with tenant in situ, tribunals will reject Ground 6. You must prove the works are urgent or necessary now, not just convenient.
You cannot use Ground 6 without the pre-tenancy notice. The notice must be in writing before or at the start of the tenancy. If you didn't give it, you'll need to use a discretionary ground (like Ground 13 if property condition is deteriorating) or wait for a break clause.
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