If you’re a landlord trying to regain possession of your property, you may have come across the term “accelerated possession order cost.” But what exactly does this mean and how much can it set you back? In this article, we’ll break down the ins and outs of accelerated possession order cost and provide you with all the information you need to navigate this often confusing process.
An accelerated possession order is a legal tool that allows landlords to quickly evict tenants without the need for a court hearing. It is typically used in cases where the tenant has failed to pay rent or has breached the terms of their tenancy agreement. While an accelerated possession order can streamline the eviction process, it does come with its own set of costs that landlords need to be aware of.
The first cost associated with obtaining an accelerated possession order is the court fee. In England and Wales, the current court fee for filing an accelerated possession order application is £355. This fee must be paid upfront when submitting the application to the court. It’s important to note that this fee is subject to change, so it’s a good idea to check the latest fee schedule before proceeding with your application.
In addition to the court fee, landlords may also incur legal costs when seeking an accelerated possession order. While it is possible to handle the application process yourself, many landlords choose to hire a solicitor to ensure that the process goes smoothly and that all legal requirements are met. Solicitor fees can vary depending on the complexity of the case and the solicitor’s hourly rate. As a rough estimate, you can expect to pay anywhere from £500 to £1500 for legal assistance with an accelerated possession order application.
Another cost to consider is the potential loss of rental income during the eviction process. While an accelerated possession order can expedite the eviction process, it still takes time for the court to review the application and issue the order. In some cases, tenants may also file a defence or counterclaim, further delaying the eviction. During this time, landlords may not be able to collect rent from the tenant, resulting in a loss of income. It’s important to factor this loss into your overall cost calculations when pursuing an accelerated possession order.
Finally, landlords should be aware of the potential costs associated with enforcing the possession order. If the tenant refuses to vacate the property voluntarily after the possession order has been granted, landlords may need to seek assistance from court bailiffs to physically remove the tenant. This can incur additional costs, including bailiff fees and potential property damage caused by the eviction process. While these costs can vary depending on the individual circumstances of the case, they are an important consideration for landlords pursuing an accelerated possession order.
In summary, the cost of obtaining an accelerated possession order can vary depending on a number of factors, including court fees, legal costs, loss of rental income, and enforcement costs. Landlords should carefully consider these costs before pursuing an accelerated possession order and weigh them against the benefits of using this legal tool to regain possession of their property.
Ultimately, an accelerated possession order can be a valuable tool for landlords looking to quickly and efficiently evict problem tenants. However, it’s important to be aware of the potential costs involved and to carefully consider whether the benefits outweigh the financial implications. By understanding the true cost of an accelerated possession order, landlords can make informed decisions about how to proceed with evicting tenants and protecting their property rights.