Solicitor-Led Possession Claims

Possession Proceedings for Landlords

Expert solicitors for landlord possession proceedings — from Section 8 notices through to possession orders, warrants of possession and High Court enforcement.

Since Section 21 was abolished on 1 May 2026, all possession must use Section 8 grounds. We advise on the correct ground, prepare the claim and represent you at hearings.

SRA Regulated Solicitors
Staged Fixed Fees
Fast Turnaround
Chester & Nationwide
Call 01244 757 352Free Initial Enquiry

Our Services

Possession Proceedings We Handle

From the initial notice through to enforcement, we handle every stage of the possession process.

Most Common

Standard Possession Claim

Used where the tenant has breached the tenancy (rent arrears, antisocial behaviour, damage). We prepare the N5B claim form, evidence bundle and attend the possession hearing.

Warrant of Possession

Applied for after a possession order is granted and the tenant fails to vacate. Authorises county court bailiffs to attend and remove the tenant.

Fastest

High Court Enforcement

Transfer of possession order to the High Court for faster enforcement via High Court Enforcement Officers. Can be executed within days.

Suspended Possession Orders

Where the court grants possession but suspends it on conditions (e.g., tenant pays arrears by instalments). We advise on compliance and enforcement if conditions are breached.

Defended Proceedings

Where the tenant files a defence or counterclaim. We prepare a full response, attend hearings and advise on settlement where appropriate.

Costs Recovery

We seek recovery of legal costs from the tenant where possible. Fixed costs are available in some possession proceedings.

Timescales

How Long Do Possession Proceedings Take?

Notice Period

2 weeks – 2 months

Depends on the ground used. Ground 8 (rent arrears) requires 2 weeks' notice. Most other grounds require 2 months.

Undefended Claim

6–10 weeks

From issue of possession proceedings to possession order, where the tenant does not file a defence.

Defended Claim

3–6 months

Where the tenant files a defence or counterclaim. Timescale depends on court listing and complexity.

These are indicative timescales. We will give you a realistic estimate based on your specific circumstances at the outset.

FAQs

Possession Proceedings — Frequently Asked Questions

What is an accelerated possession order?
An accelerated possession order was a fast-track court procedure previously used where a valid Section 21 notice had been served. Since Section 21 was abolished on 1 May 2026, accelerated possession is no longer available. All possession claims must now use Section 8 grounds. We advise on the most efficient route for your situation under the new rules.
How long do possession proceedings take?
Timescales depend on the ground used and whether the tenant defends. An undefended Section 8 claim based on mandatory rent arrears (Ground 8) can be resolved in 6–10 weeks from issue. Defended proceedings take longer — typically 3–6 months. We will give you a realistic timeline at the outset based on your specific circumstances.
What is a warrant of possession?
A warrant of possession is applied for after a possession order is granted and the tenant fails to vacate by the date specified. It authorises county court bailiffs to attend the property and remove the tenant. We handle the application and liaise with the court on your behalf.
What is High Court enforcement?
High Court enforcement involves transferring a county court possession order to the High Court for enforcement by High Court Enforcement Officers (HCEOs). HCEOs can act faster than county court bailiffs and can attend the property within days of the transfer. We advise on whether this is appropriate for your situation.
Can a tenant stop possession proceedings?
A tenant can defend possession proceedings by disputing the grounds relied upon, raising a counterclaim, or applying to suspend the possession order. For discretionary grounds, the court may suspend the order if the tenant pays off arrears. For mandatory grounds (such as Ground 8), the court has no discretion if the ground is proved. We advise on the strength of your case and how to respond to any defence.
What are the court fees for possession proceedings?
Court fees for possession proceedings are set by HMCTS and are currently £391 for a standard possession claim (N5B form). Additional fees apply for warrants of possession and High Court transfers. Our solicitor fees are charged on a staged fixed-fee basis — we will provide a clear cost estimate at the outset.

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Speak to a Possession Solicitor

Free initial enquiry. We will advise on the correct route, timescales and costs for your situation.

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Explore Further

Related Services

Section 8 NoticeEvictions & PossessionRent Arrears RecoveryLandlord & Tenant DisputesServices for Letting AgentsRenters' Rights Act Guide