This protocol applies to residential possession claims by social landlords (such as local authorities, Registered Social Landlords and Housing Action Trusts) which are based solely on claims for rent arrears. The protocol does not apply to claims in respect of long leases or to claims for possession where there is no security of tenure.
The protocol reflects the guidance on good practice given to social landlords in the collection of rent arrears. It recognises that it is in the interests of both landlords and tenants to ensure that rent is paid promptly and to ensure that difficulties are resolved wherever possible without court proceedings.
Its aim is to encourage more pre-action contact between landlords and tenants and to enable court time to be used more effectively.
Courts should take into account whether this protocol has been followed when considering what orders to make. Registered Social Landlords and local authorities should also comply with guidance issued from time to time by the Housing Corporation and the Department for Communities and Local Government.
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