Home / Glossary / Warrant of possession
What is Warrant of possession?
Last verified 31 October 2026
A warrant of possession is a court document that authorises bailiffs to evict a tenant who has not left by the date in a possession order. It is the step a landlord must take; changing the locks without it is not allowed.
Why it matters to landlords
You apply with form N325 if the tenant did not leave by the date in an outright order, or N325A if they broke a suspended order over rent or other money. For other breaches of a suspended order, use N244. In rent arrears cases you can use Possession Claim Online if you started the claim there. You can apply within 6 years of the order, and after that you need the court's permission.
The court sends the tenant an eviction notice with a leave-by date, and a bailiff carries out the eviction on that date. The court also sends you an EX96 form showing it, and you return your forms at least 3 working days before the eviction or it may be cancelled. The application fee is £148. Illegal eviction and harassment are criminal offences that can lead to a prison sentence.
Example
Kofi's tenant stays after the date in the possession order. Kofi applies with form N325, the court sends the tenant an eviction notice with a date six weeks later, and a bailiff attends. Kofi returns the EX96 form five days before the eviction appointment.