How Long Does it Take to Get a Bailiff Warrant for Eviction?
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With its intricate layers of protection for both parties involved, the UK's legal framework can often be daunting to understand and adhere to. Amongst the various stages of eviction, obtaining a bailiff warrant can be a vital step, allowing you to forcibly remove a tenant from your property with the help of the law.
However, achieving this is often riddled with its own set of challenges. In such times, having an experienced partner like AST Assistance can be invaluable in helping landlords navigate these complex legal matters. Here, we explore the intricacies of managing an eviction and getting the local county court bailiffs involved.
Understanding the eviction process is crucial for any landlord. It's not a singular act, but a sequence of legal steps, each carrying its own weight and significance. It begins with the landlord serving an eviction notice to the tenant, outlining the reasons for eviction and the timeline within which they should vacate the property.
However, if the tenant chooses not to comply by the eviction date mentioned in the notice, the landlord must proceed to the county court, seeking a possession court order. This order, when granted, legally obliges the tenant to vacate the property.
Even after this, if the tenant does not leave the property, the landlord has the right to apply for a county court bailiff warrant. A bailiff, or an enforcement agent, as they're formally known, is authorised by the court to legally evict the tenant from the landlord's property. Employing a tenant eviction specialist such as ourselves to help you, the landlord, with the process will make the experience a much easier and straight forward affair.
Timeline of the eviction process
From the moment the eviction notice is issued to the point of obtaining a bailiff warrant, it can take several months. This timeline isn't fixed, as it varies depending on several factors such as the court's availability, the speed of responses from both parties involved, and whether the tenant chooses to contest or appeal the eviction.
Although this can be frustrating for landlords, especially those reliant on rental income, understanding these potential delays can help manage expectations and prepare for the path ahead.
When and how to apply for a bailiff warrant
A landlord can only apply for a bailiff warrant after they've obtained a possession order from the court and if the tenant has disregarded this order. The application process involves filling out a specific form with details of the possession order, the property, and the tenant. This form is then submitted to the court.
Once submitted, the court reviews the application. This process generally takes a few weeks, but it can vary depending on the court's workload. If the court is satisfied with the landlord's application, they will issue a bailiff warrant.
What happens once the bailiff warrant is granted?
Once the court has issued a bailiff warrant, the bailiffs have the legal power to remove the tenant from the landlord's property. However, even at this stage, there are rules to follow. Bailiffs must allow the tenant a seven-day notice period before the impending eviction, allowing the tenant time to find alternative accommodation.
The emotional cost of evictions
Evictions are not just a legal process; they carry an emotional weight for all parties involved. For landlords, evictions can be a source of stress, given the complexity of the legal procedures and the uncertainty of the timeline. As a landlord, it's essential to handle the process empathetically and ensure clear communication with the tenant.
The importance of legal consultation in eviction processes
The eviction process involves a maze of legal complexities. Navigating this maze without a comprehensive understanding of the law can potentially lead to mistakes and further complications. That's why having professional legal guidance becomes an invaluable resource for landlords.
Introduction to AST Assistance’s services
AST Assistance offers comprehensive eviction-related services for landlords. Our team of experts help simplify the eviction process by handling paperwork, offering robust legal advice, and providing moral and emotional support during what can be a stressful period. One of the services we offer is tenant landlord mediation, this would be one of the first steps to looking to resolve an issue with a tenant.
We understand that every eviction case has its unique set of challenges. Therefore, our approach is tailored to each landlord's specific situation. From guiding you on when and how to serve an eviction notice, to aiding you with the possession order and bailiff warrant application, we ensure that each legal requirement is met accurately and promptly.
For advice and guidance, contact us today on 01706 619954, email us at info@ast-assistance.com, or fill out an online contact form below and we will be in touch at a time convenient for you.
