UK Landlord Forum / Life

I've a tenant who moved in at the end of last year, paid the first two months rent on time, but hasn't paid anything since. He now owes over 2 months rent.

I've posted a 'section 8 notice' and will apply to remove him in 2 weeks time, but in the meantime how easy (or not) is it start claiming rent arrears? I've not tried it yet but I'm told that I can make the claim in the Small Claims Court, I've also been told that it's a relatively simple process that I can do online myself. Does anyone know if this is true?

Also, should I start making my claim for rent arrears now, or should I just focus on removing the tenant, and then go after the overdue rent once I've got him out?