Having a clear understanding of current landlord possession trends is crucial for anyone involved in the private rental sector. These figures shed light on the realities facing both property owners and tenants, from the impact of new legislation to how quickly the courts are processing cases. In her latest insight, Sharfaa Kerkache, Landlord and Tenant Team Leader and Solicitor at Woodstock Legal Services, explores what the latest Ministry of Justice data reveals about possession actions in England and Wales, and what landlords and tenants should be doing in response.

Why Tracking Landlord Possession Data Matters

Possession data reflects the state of the rental market, enforcement activity, and broader economic pressures. The Ministry of Justice publishes quarterly statistics on possession actions in England and Wales, providing valuable insight into claims, court orders, warrants, and actual repossessions.

Monitoring these figures helps landlords plan for potential delays, budget for enforcement, and stay compliant with the evolving legal landscape. For tenants, they offer a window into how the courts are handling cases and what protections may be strengthened over time.

Important Findings from July to September 2025

Decrease in New Possession Claims

Recent data shows a noticeable decrease in new possession claims. One possible reason is that landlords and tenants are finding better ways to resolve rent issues without going straight to legal action. Repayment plans, open communication, and mediation services seem to be becoming more common, helping both sides avoid the stress and cost of court proceedings.

This shift could also be due to a growing awareness of pre-action protocols, which encourage landlords to explore alternatives before filing a claim. For tenants, it’s a reminder that early engagement matters. Speaking to your landlord or seeking advice as soon as arrears arise can make a big difference.

Orders and Warrants Also Down

The data suggests that there has been a 5% decrease in the number of court orders, from 19,238 to 18,283, and a 4% drop in warrants, from 11,826 to 11,405, between July and September 2025. This may indicate that it’s taking longer for possession cases to be processed through the courts.

The average time for a possession order to be granted from the point of issuing a claim has increased from 24.4 to 27.4 weeks, and the time taken for a warrant of possession to be issued has also risen. Several factors may explain these shifts:

• Court backlogs: Delays in the judicial system continue to affect timelines, meaning cases take longer to progress from claim to enforcement.

• Alternative solutions: Landlords may be resolving disputes before reaching the warrant stage, perhaps through repayment agreements or mediation.

• Impact of new legislation: With the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 introducing stricter rules and abolishing “no-fault” evictions, landlords might be more cautious about starting or pursuing claims.

For landlords, this data highlights the importance of early communication, detailed documentation, and patience as the courts adapt to new legislation.

Repossessions on the Rise

Interestingly, while possession claim timelines have lengthened, enforcement of already obtained possession orders has actually increased by 9%, climbing from 7,036 in July-September 2024 to 7,641 in July-September 2025. This shows that once landlords do obtain possession orders, they are acting more decisively to enforce them.

County Court bailiffs are carrying out more evictions, demonstrating that landlords who have completed the legal process are determined to regain their properties.

There are a few reasons behind this trend. Some tenants may still be struggling with persistent arrears, leaving landlords with little choice but to enforce. Others may feel more confident that once they reach the repossession stage, court and bailiff activity will proceed more efficiently as older cases are cleared.

Landlords should therefore plan for enforcement costs and timelines, while tenants are reminded that ignoring arrears can lead to eviction. Early communication and seeking advice remain key steps in preventing possession proceedings.

The Impact of the Renters’ Rights Act 2025

The Renters’ Rights Act 2025, which received Royal Assent on 27 October 2025, represents one of the most significant reforms to the private rental sector in decades. The abolition of Section 21 evictions means landlords can no longer remove tenants without a valid reason. Instead, all possession claims must rely on statutory grounds under the revised Section 8 regime.

This legislative change is designed to give tenants greater security, but it also means landlords must provide clear evidence for any possession claim, whether due to persistent arrears, anti-social behaviour, or the landlord’s intention to sell or reoccupy the property.

The Act also introduces:

• Rolling periodic tenancies, replacing fixed-term agreements.
• A limit of one rent increase per year, requiring at least two months’ notice.

These measures will likely reduce the total number of possession claims overall, but they could also lengthen timelines as courts handle more complex and evidence-heavy cases. For landlords, this means adapting to stricter compliance requirements and planning ahead for potential delays. For tenants, it offers stronger protections and more flexibility.

Looking Ahead: Why Monitoring Possession Trends Matters

With economic pressures, court delays, and new legal standards continuing to reshape the rental market, keeping a close eye on possession statistics has never been more important.

For landlords, understanding these trends allows for proactive management, anticipating longer timelines, complying with stricter requirements, and engaging in dialogue with tenants before pursuing legal action.

For tenants, monitoring possession trends can help identify when enforcement activity is rising and when to seek advice early. Both parties benefit from awareness and preparation.

Practical Tips for Landlords

1. Act early on arrears: Engage with tenants as soon as arrears arise. Early communication can prevent escalation to court proceedings and maintain goodwill.
2. Document everything: Keep clear records of rent schedules, correspondence, and any agreements. This will strengthen your position if legal action becomes necessary.
3. Consider alternatives: Explore repayment plans or mediation before issuing a claim. Courts expect landlords to follow pre-action protocols wherever possible.
4. Prepare for delays: With median timelines now exceeding 27 weeks, factor potential delays into your business planning and financial forecasting.
5. Stay informed: Keep up to date with legal reforms and guidance from trusted sources such as Woodstock Legal Services’ landlord and tenant insights, ensuring you remain compliant and protected.
   

Specialist Advice from Woodstock Legal Services

If you have any queries about possession proceedings, landlord compliance, or the impact of the Renters’ Rights Act 2025, our specialist team can help.

For expert legal advice from experienced landlord and tenant solicitors, please contact Sharfaa Kerkache, Landlord and Tenant Team Leader and Solicitor, by emailing contact@woodstocklegalservices.co.uk or completing the form below.

Woodstock Legal Services offers tailored advice to help landlords and tenants understand changes in housing law with confidence and clarity.