When it comes to regaining possession of a property that has been occupied by tenants in England and Wales, landlords may have to resort to obtaining an accelerated possession order. This legal process can be a quicker way to regain possession compared to applying for a standard possession order. However, it is important for landlords to understand the timescales involved in obtaining an accelerated possession order.
An accelerated possession order can be sought by landlords who have served their tenants with a Section 21 notice, which gives the tenants at least two months’ notice to vacate the property. Once this notice period has passed and the tenants have not vacated the property, landlords can apply to the court for an accelerated possession order.
The first step in obtaining an accelerated possession order is to submit a claim form to the court. This form must be completed accurately and include all relevant details about the tenancy agreement, the Section 21 notice served to the tenants, and any other relevant information. Once the court receives the claim form, it will review the application and, if everything is in order, issue a possession order.
The timescales involved in obtaining an accelerated possession order can vary depending on the court’s caseload and the efficiency of the landlord in submitting the required documentation. Generally, it can take between 6 to 10 weeks from the time the claim form is submitted to the court to the time a possession order is issued.
It is important for landlords to be proactive in pursuing an accelerated possession order to avoid unnecessary delays. This includes making sure all the necessary paperwork is in order and promptly responding to any requests for additional information from the court.
Once a possession order is issued, the tenants are typically given a date by which they must vacate the property. If the tenants fail to leave by this date, landlords can apply for a warrant of possession, which allows bailiffs to evict the tenants from the property.
Overall, the timescales involved in obtaining an accelerated possession order may be quicker compared to a standard possession order, but it is essential for landlords to be diligent in following the necessary procedures and responding promptly to any court requests. By understanding the process and being proactive, landlords can regain possession of their property in a timely manner.
In conclusion, accelerated possession order timescales can vary depending on various factors such as court caseload and landlord efficiency. Landlords seeking to regain possession of their property through an accelerated possession order should be aware of the steps involved and the timelines to expect. By being proactive and diligent in following the necessary procedures, landlords can successfully obtain an accelerated possession order within a reasonable timeframe.