First of three articles covering the law of evictions and the basic procedures for regaining the possession with assured tenancies and Assured Shorthold Tenancies (ASTs). Looks at the initial stages of the possession process including the possibility of negotiated settlement without resort to the courts. Notes that only a court can bring a tenancy to an end and cause a tenant to be evicted and details tenants' protection from eviction under the Protection from Eviction Act 1977 s2 and the Housing Act 1988 ss27 and 28. Outlines the two main statutory procedures for service of possession notices and their legal requirements - s21 of the 1988 Act for ASTs and s8 of the 1988 Act for assured tenancies. Underlines the importance of establishing that the landlord has the proper grounds for claiming possession before applying to court. Considers in detail the specific rules applying to rent arrears. References.