Dealing with problematic tenants can be an arduous task for landlords. From late rent payments to property damage, there are numerous issues that can arise when renting out a property. In cases where a tenant refuses to vacate the premises even after receiving notice, landlords may have to seek legal action to regain possession of their property. One option available to landlords in such situations is obtaining an accelerated possession order. However, before deciding to pursue this route, it is important for landlords to understand the costs associated with obtaining an accelerated possession order. In this article, we will delve into the details of accelerated possession order cost and what landlords should consider before pursuing this legal remedy.
An accelerated possession order is a court order that allows landlords to evict tenants without a hearing. This expedited process is typically used in cases where the tenant has breached the terms of the tenancy agreement or has failed to vacate the property after being served with notice. In order to obtain an accelerated possession order, landlords must submit a claim to the court along with the required documentation and pay the necessary fees.
The cost of obtaining an accelerated possession order can vary depending on several factors, including the court fees, legal fees, and any additional costs associated with enforcing the order. Landlords should be aware of these costs before pursuing legal action, as they can add up quickly and significantly impact the overall expenses involved in regaining possession of the property.
Court fees are a significant component of the accelerated possession order cost. When submitting a claim to the court, landlords are required to pay a fee to initiate the proceedings. The current court fee for obtaining an accelerated possession order is £355 (as of 2021). It is important for landlords to budget for this fee when considering pursuing legal action against a tenant, as it is a non-refundable expense regardless of the outcome of the case.
In addition to court fees, landlords may also incur legal fees when seeking an accelerated possession order. While landlords have the option to represent themselves in court, many choose to seek legal advice and representation to navigate the legal process more effectively. Solicitor fees can vary depending on the complexity of the case and the services provided. Landlords should obtain quotes from solicitors and factor in these potential costs when determining the overall expense of obtaining an accelerated possession order.
Another important consideration for landlords is the additional costs associated with enforcing the accelerated possession order. In cases where the tenant refuses to vacate the property voluntarily, landlords may need to hire bailiffs to execute the order and physically remove the tenant from the premises. The fees for hiring bailiffs can range from £110 to £660, depending on the size of the property and the location. Landlords should be prepared to cover these costs if enforcement action is necessary to regain possession of the property.
Overall, the cost of obtaining an accelerated possession order can vary depending on the specific circumstances of the case. Landlords should carefully evaluate the potential expenses involved and weigh them against the benefits of pursuing legal action. While the process can be costly, an accelerated possession order can provide landlords with a swift and effective means of regaining possession of their property and removing problematic tenants.
In conclusion, understanding the costs associated with obtaining an accelerated possession order is crucial for landlords facing difficult tenant situations. By considering the court fees, legal fees, and enforcement costs involved, landlords can make informed decisions about pursuing legal action to regain possession of their property. While the process may be costly, an accelerated possession order can be a valuable tool for landlords seeking to resolve tenancy issues efficiently and effectively.