Court fees for Section 8 possession in 2026
What you pay, when, and what you get for it.
Possession claims are made through the County Court. Fees are set by the Ministry of Justice and updated periodically. As of 2026, the fees below apply.
Initial possession claim
Standard claim (paper or online): £404. Accelerated possession (only available for fixed-term ASTs ending — increasingly rare post-RRA): £404. The fee is paid when you submit forms N5 or N5B.
Warrant of possession (bailiff)
If the tenant does not leave by the date in the possession order, apply for a warrant: £143. The court bailiff then schedules eviction.
High Court enforcement (transfer up)
Faster than County Court bailiffs in some areas. Application to transfer to High Court: £78. High Court Enforcement Officer fees from £125 plus.
Adding rent arrears to the claim
If you are claiming arrears as well as possession, court fee is on a sliding scale based on the amount claimed: £35 for under £300, up to £455 for £200,000+. For typical arrears under £5,000, fee is £205 to £265.
Solicitor fees
If you instruct a solicitor, expect additional £800 to £1,500 for an undefended possession claim, more if defended.
Help with fees
Landlords on low income or benefits can apply for fee remission via form EX160. Most BTL landlords will not qualify.
Source: gov.uk Guide to the Renters' Rights Act 2025. Last verified 2026-05-09. This page is informational, not legal advice. For complex disputes, consult a solicitor.