Updated October 2026 · Fraser Bond
Evictions
From order to bailiffs often takes weeks to months, depending on the court
14 dayscommon order period
N325warrant request
Noticeof eviction date
N244to suspend
In short: After a possession order, the tenant usually has a set time to leave (often 14 days, sometimes longer). If they don't, the landlord applies for a warrant of possession. County court bailiffs then send a notice of eviction with the date, which can be weeks or months later depending on the court's workload. Tenants can apply to suspend the warrant if circumstances justify it.
Typical timeline
1
Possession orderThe court sets a date to leave, often 14 days.
2
Warrant requestedIf the tenant stays, the landlord applies for a warrant (form N325).
3
Bailiff allocationWaiting times vary by court, from a few weeks to several months.
4
Notice of evictionBailiffs notify the date in writing in advance.
5
Eviction dayBailiffs attend; the landlord changes the locks.
| If you're a tenant | If you're a landlord |
|---|---|
| Contact the council's housing team immediately | Prepare the risk assessment form for bailiffs |
| Apply to suspend the warrant (N244) if you can pay or have new circumstances | Consider transfer to the High Court for faster enforcement, with permission |
| Arrange storage and removals | Arrange a locksmith and inventory for eviction day |
Frequently asked questions
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Earls Court, SW5Edwardes House, SW5
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Can bailiffs come without warning?
County court bailiffs give notice of the eviction date in advance.
Can I stop the bailiffs?
You can apply to the court to suspend the warrant; the court decides.
Are High Court enforcement officers faster?
Often, but the landlord needs court permission to transfer up.
