Landlords urged to shape the future of High Court possession proceedings

Landlords and property professionals are being urged to take part in a survey aimed at gathering critical insights into how the High Court can better deliver property possession enforcement.

Propertymark, in collaboration with the High Court Enforcement Officers Association (HCEOA) and other industry partners, says the process needs to be reformed.

The questionnaire, crafted by the HCEOA, is designed to collect data and opinions to better understand when High Court intervention might be a viable option for landlords.

It also aims to identify future services needed to support the industry.

With tenancy disputes often arising from complex circumstances, the survey’s findings will help tailor proportionate solutions and improve service delivery.

Possession process varies ‘drastically’

Propertymark’s head of policy and campaigns, Timothy Douglas, said: “Propertymark member agents cite delays at every stage of the possession action process in the County Court, which begins from the initial claim up to the eventual possession by a County Court bailiff and is the product of many contributing factors.

“To this end, enforcement timings can drastically differ from region to region.”

He added: “We know that when using a High Court Enforcement Officer, the execution of a Possession Order is notably quicker.

“It is therefore vital that the UK government looks at reform in this area to improve access to justice in the private rented sector.”

System is stretched

The HCEOA’s vice-chair, Michael Jackson, said: “We are pleased to be working with Propertymark and other partners on this research.

“The reality is that the system is stretched, and landlords simply can’t afford to wait months on end.

“It’s clear that this postcode lottery of delays in County Court evictions is proving to be a real nightmare for landlords in some parts of the country.”

He adds: “High Court enforcement isn’t a magic wand, and it won’t be the right choice for every landlord right now, but it can certainly help those facing the worst delays in evictions, which are unfairly costing landlords thousands of pounds.”

Landlords can access the survey on the HCEOA website.