Dealing with troublesome tenants can be a headache for any landlord. When all attempts to resolve disputes fail and eviction becomes necessary, landlords may turn to the courts to obtain an accelerated possession order. This legal process allows for faster eviction of tenants who have breached their tenancy agreement. However, it is important to be aware of the costs associated with obtaining an accelerated possession order.
The costs of obtaining an accelerated possession order can vary depending on the circumstances of the case. Here are some common costs to consider:
Court Fees: One of the main costs associated with obtaining an accelerated possession order is the court fees. These fees are set by the court and can vary depending on the type of possession claim being made. As of 2021, the court fees for possession claims range from £355 to £355 for online applications and £355 to £355 for paper applications. It is important to factor in these fees when budgeting for the accelerated possession order process.
Legal Fees: In addition to court fees, landlords may also incur legal fees when seeking an accelerated possession order. If you choose to hire a solicitor to handle the eviction process on your behalf, you will need to factor in their fees as well. Legal fees can vary depending on the complexity of the case and the experience of the solicitor. It is important to shop around and compare quotes from different solicitors to find the best option for your budget.
Bailiff Fees: Once an accelerated possession order has been granted by the court, landlords may need to enlist the services of a bailiff to physically remove the tenants from the property. Bailiff fees can vary depending on the location and the specific services required. Landlords can expect to pay anywhere from £110 to £130 for the services of a bailiff. It is important to keep in mind that these fees are in addition to the court and legal fees associated with obtaining the possession order.
Lost Rent: Another cost to consider when obtaining an accelerated possession order is the potential loss of rental income. The eviction process can take time, especially if the tenants refuse to leave voluntarily. During this period, landlords may not be able to collect rent from the property. It is important to factor in this potential loss of income when budgeting for the accelerated possession order process.
Property Damage: In some cases, tenants may cause damage to the property during the eviction process. Landlords may need to make repairs or renovations to bring the property back to a rentable condition. These costs can add up quickly and should be factored into the overall cost of obtaining an accelerated possession order.
Overall, obtaining an accelerated possession order can be a costly process for landlords. It is important to carefully consider all potential costs before proceeding with an eviction. Landlords may want to explore alternative options for resolving disputes with tenants before resorting to legal action.
In conclusion, the costs of obtaining an accelerated possession order can vary depending on the specific circumstances of the case. Landlords should be prepared to cover court fees, legal fees, bailiff fees, potential loss of rental income, and property damage costs. It is important to carefully consider all potential costs before pursuing an accelerated possession order and to explore alternative options for resolving disputes with tenants. By being aware of the potential costs involved, landlords can make informed decisions about how to best handle difficult tenants and protect their property interests.