Ground 7 targets persistent delay. Prove rent is consistently late even if eventually paid.
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Ground 7 is a discretionary possession ground for persistent delay in paying rent (note: this is different from Ground 7A which is the new mandatory repeated arrears ground). Ground 7 applies when rent is consistently paid late but eventually paid in full. From May 2026, consider whether Ground 7A (mandatory repeated arrears) or Ground 10 (persistent arrears) might be more appropriate. Ground 7 is useful when the tenant pays eventually but always late, causing cash flow issues. Tribunal has discretion. Notice period is 4 weeks.
Complete rent ledger showing all payments and dates
Evidence of rent due dates vs actual payment dates
Communication about late payments (reminders, warnings)
Tenancy agreement showing rent due date
Notice of seeking possession (minimum 4 weeks)
Pattern analysis showing consistent lateness
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 7: Persistent Delay in Paying Rent:
All information is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified solicitor for specific legal guidance.
Ground 7 is a discretionary possession ground for tenants who consistently pay rent late, even if they eventually pay in full. It's different from Ground 8 (arrears) and the new Ground 7A (repeated arrears pattern). Ground 7 covers situations where rent is always a few days or weeks late but ultimately paid. Tribunals decide if possession is reasonable.
Ground 7 (discretionary): consistent lateness but full payment. Ground 7A (mandatory from May 2026): repeated arrears pattern at specific points, even if cleared. Ground 10 (discretionary): persistent arrears of any pattern. If arrears meet Ground 7A requirements, use that (mandatory). If no arrears but always late, use Ground 7. If frequent arrears, use Ground 10 or Ground 7A.
There's no fixed number, but you need to show a persistent pattern. Example: rent due 1st of month, tenant pays on 10th-15th every month for 6+ months. Occasional lateness (e.g., twice in a year) is unlikely to succeed. The delay must be consistent enough to be considered "persistent" and cause genuine issues.
Possibly. Because Ground 7 is discretionary, tribunals consider recent conduct. If the tenant has a long history of late payment but recently started paying on time (e.g., last 3 months on time), tribunals may find possession unreasonable. You need to show the pattern is ongoing or very recent.
Mandatory possession ground for 3+ months rent arrears
Mandatory possession for persistent rent arrears pattern
Discretionary ground for persistent late or non-payment of rent
Discretionary ground for persistent late rent (Assured Shorthold only)
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