EVICTIONS are soaring across the North East and the emotional toll is tough on all involved - but it's even tougher for those who don't know their rights.

That's why the Echo has worked with Shelter to share these top tips on what to do and what you should know if you're facing losing your home.

Special Report: Stark rise in landlords turfing out tenants amid cost of living crisis

Eviction Notices 101

To help people cope with the financial impact of the coronavirus pandemic, evictions were temporarily suspended during between November 2020 and May 2021.

But restrictions have now lifted and many more people will face eviction.

Eviction notice periods have returned to two months and losing your home still represents a lengthy legal process.

But you should always be served with notice - and sometimes you can stop an eviction.

The Northern Echo: Shelter has given advice to tenants that might be in the process of eviction. Picture: NORTHERN ECHO.Shelter has given advice to tenants that might be in the process of eviction. Picture: NORTHERN ECHO.

Most private renters have assured shorthold tenancies.

Your landlord must give you a Section 21 notice or a Section 8 notice as a first step to eviction if you have this type of tenancy.

A so-called 'no fault' eviction, section 21 notices can be issued for any reason, but a Section 8 is sought when you have broken the terms of your tenancy.

Special Report: The Echo's heartbreaking day in the eviction courts

How do evictions work?

Most private renters can't be evicted legally without a court order.

Most landlords need a court order to evict tenants.

Only court bailiffs can carry out an eviction.

The Northern Echo: The guide advises what tenants can do if faced with eviction. Picture: NORTHERN ECHO.The guide advises what tenants can do if faced with eviction. Picture: NORTHERN ECHO.

What do I do if I'm threatened by my landlord or by bailiffs?

Most private renters can't be evicted legally without a court order.

Your landlord has probably broken the law.

Illegal eviction and harassment from a landlord or someone acting for them are criminal offences. The police can step in and help if you’re at risk.

Bailiffs must give you at least two weeks' notice of an eviction date.

Councils and housing associations should only evict their tenants as a last resort.

For example, they might withdraw an eviction application if they accept that rent arrears can be repaid or antisocial behaviour will stop.

Special Report: The Echo's step by step guide to the eviction process

It’s harder for private tenants to negotiate, but try if your situation has changed and you want to stay. For example, if you can now repay rent arrears.

Where can I get help?

Falling into rent arrears is frightening and often unavoidable – but support is out there for those who are struggling.

Claire Harrington works every day with people who face losing their homes as duty solicitor across some of the region’s possession courts.

She believes the cost-of-living crisis will send more people spiralling towards eviction hearings as they struggle to pay their rent and mortgages on time.

But help is out there, Ms Harrington says – and it is vital to seek it out as soon as possible if you want to avoid losing your home.

Urging those served with eviction threats to attend any court hearings, she says support is available at the courtroom and beyond.

Ms Harrington, who works for Watson Woodhouse Solicitors, said: “People are often frightened to come to court and they don’t realise they can get help before and during hearings.

“They don’t have to go in without someone there to hold their hand – as duty solicitors, we’re here to make sure nobody has to be unrepresented.

“We can pick up on any issues with your case, explore options and negotiate agreements with housing companies and landlords.

“Sometimes possessions can be stopped.”

She also urged renters to engage with their landlords or mortgage companies and said many would be sympathetic and have measures in place to assist those who are genuinely struggling.

Housing advice and support are also available from organisations and charities including Citizens Advice and Shelter.

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