Bailiffs
The London court restructuring described below was a historic operational update. The current possession process requires a landlord to obtain a possession order and, where the tenant does not leave, apply for a warrant or writ of possession. County court bailiffs now issue an eviction appointment and risk assessment paperwork as part of that process. Current court times vary, so landlords should check the latest HMCTS/GOV.UK guidance rather than relying on the historic trial arrangements below.
A selection of London Courts have restructured their bailiff process in the hopes of creating more efficient service.
The Bow, Central London, Clerkenwell & Shoreditch and Lambeth County Courts have now consolidated their bailiff centres and have created the London Bailiff Contact Centre situated at the Lambeth County Court.
The process itself has also been altered slightly, with the risk assessment being required before an appointment is received. It is therefore vital to have these prepared as soon as possible if your property is in these areas.
Whilst this transition takes place, we have been facing considerable delays in receiving appointments. This is something to be aware of also when instructing bailiff appointments.
However, as this is currently a trial so we hope that the service will become more efficient in time.
Useful UK legal and solicitor links
- GOV.UK: Repossessing a privately rented property after 1 May 2026
- GOV.UK: Evicting tenants in England
- Osbornes Law: Evicting a tenant under the Renters Rights Act 2025
This article provides general information only and is not a substitute for legal or tax advice on a specific case.
