When it comes to seeking possession of a property from a tenant, landlords may choose to utilize the accelerated possession procedure. This process allows landlords to regain possession of their property more quickly than traditional possession proceedings. However, it is important to be aware of the associated costs, including the accelerated possession court fee.
The accelerated possession court fee is a fee that landlords must pay when applying for accelerated possession through the courts. This fee is in addition to any other costs incurred during the possession process, such as hiring legal representation or serving notices to the tenant.
The current fee for filing an accelerated possession claim is £355. This fee was implemented in 2016 as part of a series of court fee increases by the government. The fee must be paid when submitting the claim form to the court, and failure to do so can result in the claim being rejected or delayed.
It is essential for landlords to be aware of the cost of the accelerated possession court fee when considering this option. While the fee may seem like an added expense, it is important to weigh the benefits of regaining possession quickly against the cost incurred. In some cases, the ability to relet the property sooner may outweigh the financial burden of the court fee.
Landlords should also be aware that the accelerated possession court fee is non-refundable, regardless of the outcome of the possession proceedings. This means that if the possession claim is unsuccessful, the landlord will not be able to recoup the fee paid to the court. As a result, it is crucial to carefully consider whether accelerated possession is the right course of action before proceeding with the claim.
Landlords should also be aware of any additional costs that may arise during the possession process. For example, if the tenant decides to contest the claim or if further court hearings are required, there may be additional fees to pay. It is essential to budget for these potential costs to avoid any financial surprises during the possession proceedings.
In some cases, landlords may be eligible for fee remission or exemption when applying for accelerated possession. This means that they may not have to pay the full court fee or may be eligible for financial assistance. Landlords should inquire with the court or seek legal advice to determine if they qualify for fee remission based on their financial circumstances.
It is important for landlords to be aware of the costs associated with accelerated possession and to budget accordingly. By understanding the accelerated possession court fee and any potential additional costs, landlords can make an informed decision about whether to pursue possession through the accelerated procedure.
In conclusion, the accelerated possession court fee is an essential cost to consider when seeking possession of a property from a tenant. Landlords should be aware of the fee amount, payment requirements, and any potential fee remission options before proceeding with accelerated possession. By understanding the costs involved, landlords can make an informed decision about the best course of action for regaining possession of their property.