When a possession order is obtained through the court, landlords expect a swift eviction of non-compliant tenants. However, the reality can be frustrating, with bailiff waiting times varying from a few weeks to several months. Recent cancellations of bailiff appointments due to health and safety reasons have exacerbated the situation. In this blog post, we delve into the challenges faced by landlords, explore the alternative solution of High Court enforcement, and highlight how our legal partners Woodstock can assist in navigating this process.
Bailiff Delays: A Nationwide Issue
The process of tenant eviction often relies on county court bailiffs, who are responsible for executing possession orders. However, due to health and safety requirements surrounding Personal Protection Equipment (PPE), bailiff appointments have been postponed or cancelled without notice. This nationwide issue affects courts across the country, not just in London. Consequently, landlords are facing extended waiting times, leaving them uncertain about when they can regain control of their properties.
High Court Enforcement: A Speedier Solution
To overcome the delays associated with county court bailiffs, landlords can opt for High Court Enforcement Officers. This alternative involves submitting an application to request permission to enforce the possession order in the High Court. Once permission is granted, the possession order can be transferred, and a writ of possession obtained. High Court Enforcement Officers typically act faster than county court bailiffs, often carrying out evictions within 2-3 weeks of obtaining the possession order (subject to permission being granted).
Why Consider High Court Enforcement?
Given the current challenges surrounding bailiff appointments, it is worth landlords seriously considering applying for permission to enforce in the High Court. By doing so, landlords can potentially bypass the lengthy waiting times associated with county court bailiffs. However, it is crucial to draft the application correctly to increase the chances of permission being granted by the Judge. Therefore, it is important to instruct a legal property specialist to assist in preparing High Court enforcement applications, ensuring landlords have the best chance of success.
The delays and cancellations of bailiff appointments due to health and safety reasons have created a challenging situation for landlords seeking eviction. However, High Court Enforcement Officers are a viable alternative, providing a quicker resolution for landlords.
Expert Assistance from our Legal Partners Woodstock Legal Services:
Woodstock Legal Services understands the frustrations faced by landlords during this uncertain period. That’s why they work closely with a reputable High Court enforcement company that specialises in quick and seamless evictions. Their skilled officers are well-versed in handling challenging situations, offering landlords peace of mind.
