UK Landlord Forum / Life

I have a nasty tenant on short hold tenancy for over two years who has been in rent arrears since Februray 2023, the agent whom she signed tenancy agreement with has absconded and despite my instruction not to pay the agent as he has disappeared and solicitor instructing her to pay the arrears to my bank account she keeps bringing up the subject of her tenancy agreement with the agent as well as other excuses in order to avoid payment. She is on universal credit, I have reached the end of my tether, now after initial notice by solicitor to quit which she has not done, an application has been made to court for the recovery of rent arrears as well as eviction order. I would be grateful if anyone can let me know how long the proceeding will take and how I can recover rent arrears from the tenant.

No one can predict how long the eviction process will take.It depends how far she is prepared to take it.I would guess that if she waits to be put out on the street to be rehoused by the council it could take many months.As for the debt,you can't get blood out of a stone.If she has nothing of value to be sold,and no salary you won't get anything,unless UC agree to pay you.However,it is easy and not too costly to pursue through small claims.You still  won't get your money,but she could get a CCJ which will help future landlords to avoid her.