A new digital service for possession claims has launched today, 29 September 2026, at noon. This service is the first to be governed by the Online Procedure Rules 2026, which also came into force today.
The accompanying practice direction outlines the procedural requirements for claims filed through this new digital system. These requirements cover aspects such as communications with the court, hearings, evidence, and court orders.
The service is being introduced in phases. Initially, it applies to registered social landlords in England bringing possession claims in postcode areas served by the County Courts at Bradford, Huddersfield, and Wandsworth. Community landlords in Wales bringing possession claims in postcode areas served by Caernarfon County Court are scheduled to begin using the service from noon on 15 October 2026.