When it comes to obtaining an accelerated possession order, landlords and property owners may find themselves anxious about the timescales involved. A possession order is a legal process that allows the landlord to regain possession of their property from a tenant who is in breach of their tenancy agreement. An accelerated possession order is a quicker and more straightforward route for landlords to take compared to standard possession proceedings. In this article, we will explore the timescales associated with obtaining an accelerated possession order and what landlords can expect throughout the process.
The first step in obtaining an accelerated possession order is to serve the tenant with a Section 21 notice. This notice informs the tenant that the landlord wishes to take possession of the property at the end of the fixed term of the tenancy agreement or during a periodic tenancy. The notice must provide the tenant with a minimum of two months’ notice before the landlord can proceed with applying for the possession order.
After the Section 21 notice has been served, the landlord can apply to the court for an accelerated possession order. The application is typically done online, and the court will review the documents submitted by the landlord to ensure that everything is in order. Once the court is satisfied with the application, they will issue the possession order. The timescales for this part of the process can vary, but generally, it takes around 2-6 weeks for the court to issue the order.
Once the possession order has been granted, the tenant will be given a date by which they must vacate the property. If the tenant refuses to leave by this date, the landlord can apply for a warrant for possession, which allows bailiffs to physically remove the tenant from the property. The timescales for obtaining a warrant can vary, but it usually takes around 4-8 weeks for the bailiffs to execute the warrant.
It is important for landlords to understand that while the accelerated possession order is a quicker process compared to standard possession proceedings, there are still legal requirements and timescales that must be adhered to. It is crucial for landlords to ensure that they have followed the correct procedures and provided the necessary documentation to the court in a timely manner to avoid any delays in the process.
Landlords should also be aware that there may be circumstances where the court requires additional information or clarification before issuing the possession order. This can cause delays in the process, so it is essential for landlords to be prepared and proactive in providing any requested information to the court promptly.
Overall, the timescales for obtaining an accelerated possession order can vary depending on the individual circumstances of each case. However, by following the correct procedures, providing the necessary documentation, and being proactive in the process, landlords can typically expect to obtain a possession order within a few months.
In conclusion, understanding the timescales associated with obtaining an accelerated possession order is essential for landlords and property owners. By following the correct procedures, providing the necessary documentation, and being proactive in the process, landlords can expect to regain possession of their property within a few months. The accelerated possession order timescales provide landlords with a quicker and more straightforward route for regaining possession of their property, allowing them to deal with non-compliant tenants in a timely manner.