How to Complete Form 3 (Section 8) Correctly

Step 1: Download the latest Form 3 from gov.uk

Always use the current version. Forms get updated, and using an old version may invalidate your notice. Download fresh from gov.uk for each notice you serve.

Search "Form 3 Section 8" on gov.uk or go directly to the housing forms section.

Step 2: Enter landlord name and address

Put your full name (or company name if let through a company) and current contact address. This is where the tenant can contact you. Make sure it matches what's on the tenancy agreement.

Step 3: Enter all tenant names exactly as on tenancy

List every person named on the tenancy agreement. Spell names exactly as they appear in the tenancy. If John David Smith signed as "J.D. Smith", use the same format. Consistency matters.

Step 4: Enter the property address

The full address of the rental property. Include flat number if applicable. This must match the address in the tenancy agreement.

Step 5: Select the grounds for possession

Tick the boxes for each ground you're relying on. Grounds are numbered and come from Schedule 2 of the Housing Act 1988. For rent arrears, typically use Ground 8, 10, and 11 together.

• Mandatory grounds (1-8): Court must grant possession if proved
• Discretionary grounds (9-17): Court may grant if reasonable

Step 6: Provide specific particulars for each ground

This is where most landlords go wrong. You must give specific details supporting each ground. Vague statements aren't enough.

For rent arrears (Ground 8):

• Monthly rent amount
• Date rent last paid
• Amount of arrears at notice date
• Calculation showing 2+ months owed

For antisocial behaviour (Ground 14):

• Specific incidents with dates
• What happened on each occasion
• Who was affected
• Police reference numbers if applicable

Step 7: Calculate and enter the earliest court date

This is the earliest date you can start court proceedings. It's calculated as: service date + notice period required for your grounds.

Notice periods vary by ground:

• Ground 8, 10, 11: 2 weeks
• Ground 14 (ASB): Immediate or 2 weeks
• Ground 1, 2: 2 months
• Ground 1A (sale): 4 months (post-RRA)

Step 8: Sign and date the notice

Sign the form and date it. If you're using an agent, they can sign on your behalf if authorised. Keep the original with your signature for your records.