When it comes to landlord and tenant disputes, one of the tools available to landlords is the accelerated possession order. This legal process allows landlords to regain possession of a property quickly, without the need for a court hearing. However, there are certain fees associated with obtaining an accelerated possession order, including the court fee. In this article, we will take a closer look at the accelerated possession order court fee and what you need to know about it.
What is an Accelerated Possession Order?
An accelerated possession order is a legal process that allows landlords to evict tenants from a property without the need for a court hearing. This process is typically used when a tenant has breached the terms of their tenancy agreement, such as falling into rent arrears or causing damage to the property. In order to obtain an accelerated possession order, landlords must first serve a Section 21 notice on the tenant, giving them a minimum of two months’ notice to vacate the property.
Once the notice period has expired and the tenant has not vacated the property, landlords can apply to the court for an accelerated possession order. This process is typically much quicker than a standard possession order, as there is no need for a court hearing. If the court grants the accelerated possession order, the tenant will be given a specified date by which they must vacate the property. If they fail to do so, the landlord can then apply for a warrant of possession, which allows the court bailiff to evict the tenant.
What is the accelerated possession order court fee?
In order to apply for an accelerated possession order, landlords must pay a court fee. The current fee for applying for an accelerated possession order is £355, as of 2021. This fee is payable to the court at the time of submitting the application and is non-refundable, regardless of the outcome of the application.
It is important to note that the court fee is in addition to any other costs that may be incurred during the possession process, such as legal fees or bailiff fees. Landlords should be aware of these additional costs when considering whether to pursue an accelerated possession order.
How to Pay the accelerated possession order court fee?
The court fee for an accelerated possession order can be paid online, by post, or in person at the court. When making a payment, landlords should ensure that they provide the correct reference number and any other information required by the court. Failure to provide accurate information may result in delays to the application process.
It is recommended that landlords keep a record of their payment, such as a confirmation email or receipt, in case there are any issues with the application. This can help to resolve any disputes regarding the payment of the court fee.
Are There Any Exemptions or Discounts Available?
In some cases, landlords may be eligible for a fee exemption or discount when applying for an accelerated possession order. For example, if the landlord is in receipt of certain benefits or has a low income, they may qualify for a fee remission. Landlords should check with the court to see if they are eligible for any exemptions or discounts before making a payment.
In Conclusion
The accelerated possession order court fee is an important consideration for landlords looking to regain possession of their property quickly. By understanding the fee and how to pay it, landlords can navigate the possession process more effectively. While the fee may seem like an additional cost, obtaining an accelerated possession order can ultimately save landlords time and money in the long run. If you are considering applying for an accelerated possession order, be sure to factor in the court fee and any other associated costs to ensure a successful outcome.
I hope this article has provided you with valuable information on the accelerated possession order court fee and how it relates to the possession process. By being informed and prepared, landlords can navigate the legal system more confidently and assert their rights as property owners.