The New Form 3A – What You Must Know
Form 3A replaces the old Section 21 notice format. It requires additional information about the tenant's rights and property compliance. Serving the wrong form, or an incomplete one, can void your notice entirely.
Updated 1 February 2026
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Form 3A is part of the evolving possession framework under the Renters' Rights Act. Landlords who previously relied on Section 21 no-fault notices must understand how notice requirements are changing and what documentation must be in place before any notice is served.
What Form 3A requires
The form bundles the notice itself with information about tenant rights, how to get advice, and — critically — confirmation that required compliance documents have been provided. Missing or expired EPC, EICR, or GSC certificates can block valid service.
Common mistakes
Landlords often serve Form 3A with the wrong tenancy dates, omit the gas safety record, or use an address on certificates that does not match the AST. Check these details before service — mismatches are a common reason possession cases fail.
Planning ahead
Even if you expect to use Section 8 for arrears, compliance gaps weaken your overall position and can extend timelines if a tenant raises disrepair or procedural defences. Prepare properly now rather than during a live arrears situation.