Practice direction for possession proceedings comes into force
A new digital service for possession claims in England and Wales has launched, governed by updated procedural rules, with phased rollout beginning in specific courts.
The Online Procedure Rule Committee’s practice direction for possession proceedings has taken effect, establishing the procedural framework for claims filed through the new digital service. This marks the first use of the Online Procedure Rules 2026, which now govern possession claims submitted via the digital platform. The service went live at noon on 29 September 2026, coinciding with the enforcement of the updated rules. The practice direction outlines requirements for court communications, hearings, evidence submission, and the issuance of court orders.
The digital service is being introduced gradually, with the initial phase limited to registered social landlords in England filing claims in postcode areas served by the County Courts at Bradford, Huddersfield, and Wandsworth. Community landlords in Wales will begin using the service from noon on 15 October 2026, specifically for claims in postcode areas served by Caernarfon County Court. The phased approach aims to ensure smooth implementation and address any procedural adjustments as needed.
Where the Online Procedure Rules or the practice direction do not yet cover specific aspects of possession proceedings—such as appeals or enforcement—the existing Civil Procedure Rules will continue to apply. This ensures continuity in legal processes while the new digital framework is fully developed. The transition reflects the ongoing modernization of court procedures to accommodate digital claims.
The launch of the digital possession claims service represents a significant step in the evolution of the Online Procedure Rules, which are designed to streamline and standardize legal processes. The practice direction provides clarity on procedural requirements, reducing ambiguity for landlords and courts alike. This initiative is part of broader efforts to enhance efficiency in the justice system through digital transformation.