This is an update from the Association on important developments on new HMCTS guidance in relation to COVID 19.
- New HMCTS guidance on COVID 19 in relation to renters and landlords
The Association strongly supports the new guidance – published yesterday – which prevents residential occupiers being evicted from their homes in addition to halting any new proceedings being issued from 26 March 2020.
- Reinforcement of Ministry of Justice guidance on enforcement visits
The Association would like to reinforce the importance of the guidance on enforcement visits issued by Tessa Wearing, Policy Manager for Civil Procedure& Enforcement Policy at the Ministry of Justice, who has issued the following statement:
“It is important that bailiffs follow the latest government guidance regarding working practices and contact with others, including social distancing measures. We would recommend bailiffs suspend in-person visits unless they are able to comply with advice on social distancing and / or be equipped with suitable PPE.”
The Association agrees with the advice that Members should be suspending in-person visits.
It is also important to note that writs of possession against persons unknown can continue, subject to public interest and police support.
