When it comes to dealing with problem tenants, landlords often find themselves in situations where they need to seek an accelerated possession order. This legal process allows landlords to regain possession of their property quickly, but it comes with its own set of costs that landlords need to be aware of. In this article, we will explore the costs associated with obtaining an accelerated possession order, also known as the accelerated possession order cost.
An accelerated possession order is a court order that allows landlords to evict tenants without the need for a court hearing. This process is typically used in cases where tenants have breached their tenancy agreement or are not paying rent. The accelerated possession order is a faster and more cost-effective way for landlords to regain possession of their property compared to the traditional court proceedings.
One of the main costs associated with obtaining an accelerated possession order is the court fees. Landlords are required to pay a fee when submitting their application to the court. As of 2021, the court fee for an accelerated possession order is £355 in England and £355 in Wales. It is important to note that these fees are subject to change, so landlords should always check the latest fee schedule before submitting their application.
In addition to the court fees, landlords may also incur legal fees if they choose to seek legal advice or representation. While it is not a requirement to hire a solicitor to apply for an accelerated possession order, many landlords find it beneficial to seek legal advice to ensure that the process is handled correctly. Legal fees can vary depending on the solicitor’s rates and the complexity of the case.
Another cost that landlords need to consider is the cost of serving the notice to the tenant. In order to apply for an accelerated possession order, landlords must first serve a valid notice to their tenant. This notice can be a Section 21 notice or a Section 8 notice, depending on the reason for seeking possession. Landlords can serve the notice themselves or hire a professional process server to do it for them, which will incur additional costs.
Once the notice has been served and the application for an accelerated possession order has been submitted to the court, landlords may also need to consider the cost of enforcement if the tenant refuses to leave the property voluntarily. While the accelerated possession order is designed to be a fast and efficient way to regain possession, there are instances where tenants may still refuse to vacate the property. In these cases, landlords may need to seek the services of bailiffs to enforce the court order, which will incur additional costs.
Overall, the costs associated with obtaining an accelerated possession order can quickly add up for landlords. It is important for landlords to carefully consider these costs and budget accordingly before initiating the legal process. Landlords should also explore alternative options for resolving disputes with tenants before resorting to an accelerated possession order, as it can be a costly and time-consuming process.
In conclusion, the costs of obtaining an accelerated possession order can vary depending on a number of factors, including court fees, legal fees, and enforcement costs. Landlords should carefully consider these costs and weigh them against the benefits of regaining possession of their property quickly. Seeking legal advice and exploring alternative solutions can help landlords navigate the process more effectively and minimize costs in the long run.