COVID-19: publication of 117th Practice Direction update on stay of possession proceedings | Practical Law

COVID-19: publication of 117th Practice Direction update on stay of possession proceedings | Practical Law

The 117th Practice Direction (PD) update was published on 26 March 2020. The PD update sets out a new PD 51Z to stay possession proceedings.

COVID-19: publication of 117th Practice Direction update on stay of possession proceedings

by Practical Law Property Litigation
Published on 30 Mar 2020 • England, Wales
The 117th Practice Direction (PD) update was published on 26 March 2020. The PD update sets out a new PD 51Z to stay possession proceedings.
The Ministry of Justice has published the 117th Practice Direction (PD) update. The PD update sets out a stay of possession proceedings.
For a period of 90 days, commencing on 27 March 2020, the following are stayed:
  • All proceedings for possession brought under CPR Part 55.
  • All proceedings seeking to enforce an order for possession by a warrant or writ of possession.
The PD update stays both residential and non-residential possession proceedings and includes mortgage possession proceedings, as well as proceedings against squatters.
Claims for injunctive relief are not subject to the stay.
The PD update ceases to have effect from 30 October 2020.
The PD update confirms the press announcement, see Legal update, COVID-19: suspension of all ongoing housing possession actions.