Coronavirus rules

As you should know, all possession proceedings were stayed in March 2020 as a result of the Coronavirus pandemic and the courts have only started processing claims again since 21 September.

During that period the notice period for most possession notices has been increased to six months (with a few exceptions) which will remain the case until 31 March 2021 – unless extended further at that time.

New court rules have now come into force as a result of the coronavirus pandemic to take account of the huge backlog of cases that have piled up during the long stay. 

These special rules are set out on a separate page (the Coronavirus Rules page).  

Our general advice is as follows:

• Contact the tenants and see if you can resolve things amicably between yourselves
• If this proves difficult, try one of the mediation services
• If agreement proves impossible and you need to evict, use solicitors
• If you decide to act in person in eviction proceedings  – be aware that most Judges will be looking for an excuse to adjourn or dismiss your claim in order to reduce the burden of work on the courts and homelessness generally.  So be very, very careful and double check everything at least three times. Be aware also that saving money on legal fees at this time could  easily prove to be a false economy.

You will find a list of  our recommended solicitors here.

Tessa Shepperson