A Sector in Transition - Possession Claims to go Digital

Possession proceedings in England and Wales are moving online. A new digital court service is being launched in stages, and while most private landlords and their agents are unlikely to use the service, the direction of travel is clear. PCOL already exists but only for claims that relate to rent arrears or breach of a mortgage agreement.

What has changed?

The Online Procedure Rules 2026 came into force on 7th September 2026 with the introduction of a separate set of court rules for cases run online, sitting alongside the Civil Procedure Rules rather than within them. Possession claims are the first type of case to be brought under the new rules.

The rules are supported by a draft practice direction published by the Online Procedure Rule Committee which explains how claims will work in practice through the new Digital Possession Service, covering communications, hearings, evidence and court orders.

When will the service start?

The first release of the Digital Possession Service is expected in September 2026, but no firm start date has been confirmed.

Who can use the service?

The opening phase is limited to possession claims brought by registered providers of social housing in England and community landlords in Wales. The property must also fall within an area served by one of four court centres: Bradford, Caernarfon, Huddersfield or Wandsworth.

What does this mean for private landlords and letting agents?

For now, very little. Most private rented sector possession claims will continue under the Civil Procedure Rules, as will accelerated possession claims, claims against trespassers, enforcement such as warrants of possession, and appeals. A letting agent is only likely to come across the new service in its first phase if it acts for an eligible social landlord with property in one of the four pilot areas.

Why should the PRS pay attention now?

This pilot is a preview. Further phases are expected to bring in more courts and more types of claimant, and the private rented sector is the obvious next step. With possession under the Renters' Rights Act depending on landlords proving a statutory ground, a digital system is likely to benefit those who can present clear, complete evidence quickly.

Letting agents and landlords can get ahead by asking a simple question: - if a claim had to be filed online tomorrow, could every document be found and uploaded within minutes? That means tenancy agreements, proof of notice service, rent statements, deposit protection records and safety certificates all held in good order and in one place.

Keeping GLM Members informed

GLM will follow the rollout closely and share updates as the practice direction is finalised, the launch date is confirmed and plans for extending the service to the private rented sector emerge.

For training, guidance and support on possession and the Renters' Rights Act, visit guildofletting.com.