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What if I lose my home? Eviction and repossession advice

Not repaying your landlord or mortgage lender could lead you to lose your home.


  • Repossession is when a mortgage company takes your home because you have not paid
  • Eviction is when you are made to leave a rental property

These are both a last resort. But there is a serious risk if you do not pay what you owe.

Keep in touch with the lender or landlord if you have rent arrears or mortgage arrears. They can look at your options with you.

Bailiff evictions and house repossession

Bailiffs are often involved in repossessions.

An eviction notice tells anyone living in the property to leave.

At eviction, bailiffs:

  • Act on behalf of the court
  • Make sure the property returns to the lender

In some cases the landlord can instruct High Court enforcement officers to carry out the eviction.

  • They must give notice of eviction
  • Except when evicting trespassers

Unlock your options as a homeowner


Find out more about how to deal with mortgage arrears, fixed rate ending, how debt can affect your home - and more.

Read our guides