When it comes to dealing with problematic tenants who refuse to leave a property, landlords often turn to the legal system for assistance. One common tool that landlords use is an accelerated possession order, which is a court order that allows them to regain possession of their property quickly. However, before applying for an accelerated possession order, landlords should be aware of the court fee that comes with it.
The accelerated possession order court fee is a fee that landlords must pay when they apply to the court for an accelerated possession order. This fee is in addition to any other legal costs that may be incurred during the process. The amount of the court fee can vary depending on a number of factors, including the jurisdiction where the property is located and the type of claim being made.
In England and Wales, as of April 2021, the court fee for applying for an accelerated possession order is £355. This fee is payable to the court when the application is submitted. It is important to note that this fee is non-refundable, even if the application is unsuccessful.
Landlords should also be aware that there are other potential costs associated with obtaining an accelerated possession order. For example, if the tenant contests the application or if there are any complications during the process, the landlord may incur additional legal fees. It is important for landlords to consider these potential costs before deciding to pursue an accelerated possession order.
It is also worth noting that the court fee for an accelerated possession order is separate from any other costs that may be incurred during the eviction process. For example, landlords may also need to pay for the services of a bailiff to carry out the eviction if the tenant does not leave voluntarily. These costs can add up quickly, so it is important for landlords to budget accordingly.
One way to potentially reduce the costs associated with obtaining an accelerated possession order is to seek legal advice before pursuing this course of action. An experienced solicitor can help landlords navigate the legal process, potentially saving them time and money in the long run. Additionally, a solicitor can advise landlords on whether an accelerated possession order is the best course of action or if there are other options that may be more appropriate.
In some cases, landlords may be eligible for fee remission, which means that they may not have to pay the full court fee for an accelerated possession order. Fee remission is available to individuals who meet certain criteria, such as being in receipt of certain benefits or having a low income. Landlords who believe they may be eligible for fee remission should speak to a solicitor or contact the court for more information.
Ultimately, the decision to apply for an accelerated possession order should not be taken lightly. Landlords should carefully consider whether this option is the best course of action for their specific situation. While an accelerated possession order can be an effective way to regain possession of a property quickly, it is important to be aware of the associated costs and potential challenges that may arise during the process.
In conclusion, the accelerated possession order court fee is an important consideration for landlords who are seeking to regain possession of their property. By being aware of the court fee and other potential costs associated with obtaining an accelerated possession order, landlords can make informed decisions about how to proceed. Seeking legal advice and exploring all available options can help landlords navigate the eviction process successfully and efficiently.
By understanding the costs and challenges involved in obtaining an accelerated possession order, landlords can take the necessary steps to protect their interests and regain possession of their property in a timely manner.