1. Social housing sectorPre-court processesPre-action requirementsNotice of proceedings for recovery of possessionWhen proceedings beginSummary cause processThe summonsLay representationCourt terms and outcomesContinuationSistDismissDecreePost-court actionMinute for recallWhen a decree can be recalledAppealCharge for removalDealing with rent arrears at courtClients may find themselves in circumstances where it is difficult to pay their social housing rent. Social landlords may do all they can to give their tenants advice and support, but this varies in practice. Evictions are traumatic events for clients and their families and can be costly for landlords. Eviction should always only be used as a last resort.Currently, all social housing eviction processes for arrears under £5,000 are by summary cause in the sheriff court.