Being a landlord in today’s rental market isn’t just about collecting rent — it’s increasingly about navigating red tape, chasing unpaid arrears, and managing time-consuming legal processes. One of the most stressful (and costly) aspects? Evictions.

Recent reports from the property sector show landlords are being encouraged to fast-track tenant evictions via the High Court, bypassing the increasingly slow and clogged-up county court system. While the High Court route is quicker, it also comes with a steeper price tag — and the whole process raises a bigger question: Is managing tenants really worth all the hassle?

County Court vs High Court: Two Routes, Two Headaches

Traditionally, landlords seeking to evict tenants have used the county court system. But in 2024, the backlog has reached such a point that many are waiting over six months (and in some areas, over a year) to regain possession of their own property.

By contrast, escalating the case to the High Court — a process known as “transfer up” — allows landlords to enforce a possession order within 7 to 14 days after it’s granted.

So why doesn’t everyone do it? The answer, as always, lies in the cost.

The Real Cost of Eviction

Here’s a breakdown of the typical costs involved in both routes:

County Court Eviction

• • Serving Notice: £100 – £350
  • Court Application & Possession Order: £1,100 – £1,300
  • County Court Bailiff: £360 – £400
  • Total: £1,560 – £2,050
    

High Court Eviction (Transfer Up)

• • Serving Notice: £100 – £350
  • Court Application & Possession Order: £1,100 – £1,300
  • High Court Enforcement Agent: £1,300 – £1,400
  • Total: £2,500 – £3,000

(Source: NimbleFins)

While High Court enforcement offers speed, it can cost £1,000 more, and doesn’t eliminate the stress of court forms, solicitor coordination, or chasing unpaid rent.

The ‘Postcode Lottery’ of Possession

Delays in eviction aren’t consistent across the country. Jonathan Walker, North East Operations Manager at Find UK Property, comments on how long it can take in soma areas: “The ‘postcode lottery’ of the court system means some landlords are waiting up to 15 months for an eviction date depending on where their property is located. That’s 15 months of lost rent, legal uncertainty, and ongoing stress — all before a single new tenant can move in”.

Is It Time to Rethink Being a Hands-On Landlord?

Let’s be honest — the increasing legal complexity, rising costs, and inconsistent court processes have turned what used to be a relatively straightforward investment into a legal and financial headache.

At Find UK Property, we remove the hassle altogether. Our fully managed property investment solutions are designed specifically for hands-off landlords. We take care of everything — from tenant management to legal compliance, maintenance, and even eviction procedures if needed. You still earn from your investment, without losing sleep over tenants, bailiffs or rent arrears.