If you are a landlord dealing with difficult tenants who refuse to vacate your property, you may have come across the term “accelerated possession order.” This legal process allows landlords to regain possession of their property quickly and efficiently through the courts However, before you decide to pursue an accelerated possession order, it is important to understand the costs involved in obtaining one.
An accelerated possession order is a faster alternative to a standard possession order, usually used when dealing with tenants who have breached their tenancy agreement or failed to pay rent The process typically takes around 6-8 weeks from start to finish, making it an attractive option for landlords looking to regain possession of their property as soon as possible.
One of the main costs associated with obtaining an accelerated possession order is the court fees As of 2021, the fee for applying for an accelerated possession order is £355 This fee is non-refundable, so it is essential to ensure that you have a strong case before proceeding with the application If the court grants the possession order, there may be additional fees for enforcement action, such as bailiff services, which can vary depending on the circumstances.
In addition to court fees, landlords may also incur legal costs when obtaining an accelerated possession order While it is possible to represent yourself in court, many landlords choose to seek legal advice to ensure that their case is strong and that all necessary paperwork is in order The cost of legal representation can vary depending on the complexity of the case and the legal fees charged by the solicitor or legal firm.
Another important cost to consider when pursuing an accelerated possession order is the cost of serving notice on the tenants Before applying for a possession order, landlords are required to serve the tenants with a Section 21 notice, giving them a minimum of two months’ notice to vacate the property accelerated possession order cost. The cost of serving notice can include postage, delivery, and any other associated costs, which can add up depending on the method of service chosen.
It is worth noting that while pursuing an accelerated possession order can be costly, the potential financial losses from having non-paying or disruptive tenants in your property can far outweigh the initial costs By regaining possession of your property quickly, you can minimize the impact on your rental income and avoid further damage or loss caused by problematic tenants.
In some cases, landlords may be able to recover some or all of the costs associated with obtaining an accelerated possession order from the tenants themselves If the court grants the possession order, landlords can include the court fees, legal costs, and any other relevant expenses in the claim for possession However, it is essential to seek legal advice to ensure that you are following the correct procedures and documenting all costs properly.
In conclusion, the costs of obtaining an accelerated possession order can vary depending on the specific circumstances of the case From court fees to legal costs to serving notice, there are several expenses to consider when pursuing this legal process While it may be an investment upfront, regaining possession of your property quickly and efficiently can ultimately save you time, money, and stress in the long run.
If you are considering pursuing an accelerated possession order, it is essential to weigh the potential costs against the benefits of regaining control of your property By seeking legal advice, preparing a strong case, and understanding the full extent of the expenses involved, you can make an informed decision that is in the best interest of both you and your property.