Who should read this?

Private Landlords, Estate Agents and Letting Agents, Social Housing Providers, Executive Teams, Boards, Income, Housing Management and Tenancy Enforcement Teams.

What has been announced?

PD 51Z stay on possession proceedings is to be extended in its current form until 23^rd August 2020.

The report can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/ban-on-evictions-extended-by-2-months-to-further-protect-renters

What does this mean for Private Landlords and Social Housing Providers?

• Possession claims using CPR 55 can be issued but cannot be actively pursued (for rent arrears or other grounds);
• Applications cannot be made to enforce possession orders obtained before the stay;
• Appeals cannot be heard and directions cannot be made unless agreed. A ban on taking active steps in possession claims or seeking to enforce possession orders has been extended until 23^rd August 2020.
• The stay does not apply to CPR 55.6 claims (against a person unknown) or for interim possession orders.
• Injunction orders are not affected.
• The Courts have very limited powers to lift the stay and can approve agreed directions. However, should the stay be lifted and that resulted in a possession order, the execution of that order would be stayed in accordance with the practice direction and that extended period of time must be allowed for permission to being a second appeal.

What we will be doing

Our Housing and Regeneration Team are available to offer you help and advice on general matters flowing from the above or in relation to any specific cases you may have. We are still receiving new instructions and opening new cases.