As a landlord, dealing with problem tenants can be a challenging and stressful experience. Whether it’s late payments, property damage, or violation of the tenancy agreement, there are times when landlords have no choice but to take legal action to regain possession of their property. One of the options available to landlords in the UK is the accelerated possession order, which can now be applied for online, making the process faster and more convenient.
What is an Accelerated Possession Order?
An accelerated possession order is a legal process that allows landlords to evict tenants without the need for a court hearing. This option is available to landlords who have an assured shorthold tenancy agreement in place and have given their tenants a Section 21 notice to vacate the property. If the tenants fail to leave by the specified date on the notice, the landlord can apply for an accelerated possession order to regain possession of the property.
The main advantage of an accelerated possession order is that it is a quicker and less expensive process compared to a standard possession order, which involves a court hearing. However, it is important to note that an accelerated possession order can only be used to regain possession of the property and does not allow landlords to claim rent arrears or damages.
Applying for an accelerated possession order online
In the past, landlords had to submit a paper application to the court to obtain an accelerated possession order. However, with the advancement of technology, the process can now be done online, making it faster and more convenient for landlords.
To apply for an accelerated possession order online, landlords need to fill out an accelerated possession claim form and submit it to the court along with a copy of the Section 21 notice, the tenancy agreement, and any other relevant documents. The court will then review the application and, if everything is in order, issue the possession order without the need for a hearing.
The online application process has streamlined the procedure for obtaining an accelerated possession order, saving landlords time and hassle. It also allows landlords to track the progress of their application online and receive updates from the court.
What Happens After Obtaining an Accelerated Possession Order?
Once the court issues an accelerated possession order, the tenants are given a date by which they must vacate the property. If the tenants fail to leave by the specified date, the landlord can apply for a warrant of possession, which gives the court bailiffs the authority to evict the tenants from the property.
It is important for landlords to follow the correct procedures when evicting tenants to avoid any legal complications. Landlords must ensure that they give tenants the required notice period and follow the proper steps outlined in the accelerated possession order.
Conclusion
Dealing with difficult tenants can be a challenging experience for landlords, but the accelerated possession order provides a practical solution for regaining possession of a property quickly and efficiently. With the option to apply for an accelerated possession order online, landlords can now navigate the process more easily and save time and effort in the pursuit of justice.
If you are a landlord facing issues with problem tenants, consider applying for an accelerated possession order online to reclaim your property and move forward with peace of mind.