Getting a possession order can feel like the final step. But sometimes the tenant still refuses to leave.
This is stressful for landlords, especially when there are rent arrears, property damage, or mortgage pressure. But even after a possession order, landlords must follow the legal process. You cannot simply change the locks or remove the tenant yourself.
If the tenant does not leave by the date in the possession order, the next step is usually to apply for a warrant of possession so court bailiffs can legally evict the tenant. GOV.UK confirms that landlords can ask the court for a warrant if the tenant does not leave by the date given in an outright possession order.
What should landlords do first?
Check the possession order carefully.
Look at:
- The date the tenant must leave
- Whether it is an outright possession order
- Whether it is a suspended possession order
- Any conditions the tenant must follow
- Whether rent arrears or other payments are included
If the tenant has missed the deadline or broken the terms of a suspended order, you may be able to move to enforcement.
For help with the wider eviction process, link naturally to your Tenant Eviction Solicitors page.
Can a landlord remove the tenant themselves?
No. This is risky and can become illegal eviction.
Even with a possession order, landlords should not:
- Change the locks themselves
- Remove the tenant’s belongings
- Cut off gas, electricity, or water
- Threaten the tenant
- Force entry without legal authority
- Pressure the tenant to leave unlawfully
Only authorised bailiffs or enforcement officers can carry out the eviction after the correct court process.
If you are unsure what could delay or damage your case, read Tenant Eviction Mistakes Landlords Should Avoid.
Applying for bailiff enforcement
If the tenant refuses to leave, the landlord can apply for a warrant of possession. Once the court issues it, the tenant will be sent an eviction notice with the eviction date. If the tenant is still there on that date, the bailiff can remove them.
This is where many landlords need help because one wrong form, missed detail, or delay can slow the process down.
For support at this stage, use your Bailiff Enforcement Solicitors page.
What if the case involves rent arrears?
If the possession order was linked to unpaid rent, keep your rent schedule updated. You may still need evidence of arrears, payments made after the hearing, and any breach of a suspended order.
A money order may also be made as part of possession proceedings, usually covering rent arrears, court fees, or legal costs. GOV.UK explains that money orders can be included with possession orders.
For landlords dealing with unpaid rent, link to Rent Arrears Eviction Solicitors.
What if the tenant asks for more time?
Tenants may ask for more time to leave, especially if they say they are waiting for council housing, family support, or payment of arrears.
A landlord does not have to agree to informal delays, but every case should be handled carefully. If there is a suspended possession order, check the conditions before taking action.
If the tenant has already refused to leave and you need urgent advice, use Emergency Eviction Help.
What landlords should keep as evidence
Keep everything organised. This can help if the tenant challenges enforcement or if further court steps are needed.
Useful records include:
- The possession order
- Rent arrears schedule
- Tenancy agreement
- Section 8 notice or earlier notice documents
- Court paperwork
- Messages from the tenant
- Records of missed payments
- Photos or reports if there is property damage
- Notes of any threats, anti-social behaviour, or refusal to leave
If the original case was based on Section 8 grounds, link to Section 8 Eviction Solicitors.
Local eviction support
Landlords often need local help because court times and enforcement steps can vary by area.
Useful city pages include:
Tenant Eviction Solicitors in Birmingham
Tenant Eviction Solicitors in Coventry
Tenant Eviction Solicitors in Bristol
Evict a Tenant in London
Final answer
If a tenant refuses to leave after a possession order, the landlord should not take matters into their own hands.
Check the possession order, confirm the tenant has missed the leaving date or broken the order, then apply for proper court enforcement. In most cases, this means applying for a warrant of possession so bailiffs can legally remove the tenant.
For fast help with enforcement, rent arrears, or next steps, landlords can contact Tenant Eviction Solicitors or visit the Bailiff Enforcement page.
