When a landlord seeks to regain possession of a property from a tenant, they may choose to pursue an accelerated possession order. This legal process allows landlords to quickly regain possession of their property without the need for a court hearing, making it a faster and more efficient option compared to standard possession proceedings. However, it is important for landlords to understand the timescales involved in obtaining an accelerated possession order in order to navigate the process effectively.
An accelerated possession order can be sought in cases where a landlord is seeking possession of a property on the grounds of a Section 21 notice. This notice is used to end an assured shorthold tenancy and allows landlords to regain possession of their property without providing a reason, provided that certain conditions are met. Once the Section 21 notice has expired and the tenant has not vacated the property, the landlord can apply to the court for an accelerated possession order.
The first step in obtaining an accelerated possession order is to submit an application to the court. The application must be made on a specific form and include details of the tenancy, the notice served, and any other relevant information. Once the application has been submitted, the court will review the paperwork and, if it is in order, will issue a possession order without the need for a hearing.
The timescales involved in obtaining an accelerated possession order can vary depending on the court’s workload and the efficiency of the process. In general, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months to obtain an accelerated possession order, although in some cases it may be possible to secure an order in as little as a few weeks.
One of the key factors that can impact the timescales for obtaining an accelerated possession order is the accuracy and completeness of the application. If the application is missing information or contains errors, it may be rejected by the court, leading to delays in the process. For this reason, it is important for landlords to carefully review their application before submitting it to ensure that it meets all the necessary requirements.
Once the court has issued the possession order, the tenant will be given a specified period of time to vacate the property. This period is usually around 14 days, although it can be longer in some cases. If the tenant fails to vacate the property by the specified deadline, the landlord can apply to the court for a warrant of possession, allowing them to enlist the help of bailiffs to evict the tenant.
Overall, the timescales for obtaining an accelerated possession order can be relatively quick compared to standard possession proceedings. However, it is important for landlords to be aware of the potential delays that can arise and to take steps to navigate the process efficiently. By submitting a complete and accurate application, landlords can increase their chances of obtaining an accelerated possession order in a timely manner and regaining possession of their property without unnecessary delays.
In conclusion, accelerated possession order timescales can vary depending on a number of factors, including the court’s workload and the accuracy of the application. Landlords seeking to regain possession of their property through an accelerated possession order should be aware of the potential timescales involved and take steps to navigate the process efficiently. By understanding the process and being prepared, landlords can increase their chances of obtaining an accelerated possession order in a timely manner and regaining possession of their property without unnecessary delays.