If your mortgage arrears have reached the stage of a court hearing, you still have options. Judges in the UK regularly suspend or adjourn repossession cases if homeowners show a realistic plan to pay arrears. Preparation and presentation can make the difference. This guide explains how to get ready for your hearing, what to expect on the day, and how a stop house repossession service can be part of your strategy.
Why Preparation Matters
At a repossession hearing, the judge will decide whether to:
Grant an outright possession order (you must leave by a set date)
Grant a suspended possession order (you can stay if you meet conditions)
Adjourn or dismiss the case
The better you prepare, the more likely you’ll achieve a favourable outcome.
Step 1: Understand the Process
When you receive a claim form or hearing notice, it will include:
The lender’s particulars of claim (why they’re taking action)
The arrears amount
A defence form to complete
Complete and return the defence form on time, giving details of your income, expenditure, and proposals to pay arrears. This helps the judge understand your situation before the hearing.
Step 2: Seek Free Legal Advice
Contact organisations like Citizens Advice, Shelter, or your local Housing Loss Prevention Advice Service. They can:
Help you complete forms
Advise you on your rights
Represent you at the hearing in some cases
Many courts have duty housing advisers on the day — arrive early to access them.
Step 3: Gather Your Evidence
Prepare:
Mortgage statements and arrears letters
Proof of income and outgoings
Evidence of benefits applications or job offers
Any correspondence with your lender about repayment plans
Organise documents in a folder for quick reference.
Step 4: Develop a Realistic Repayment Proposal
Use your budget to show what you can afford. Judges are more likely to suspend possession if your plan is credible. Even small payments toward arrears can help.
Step 5: Practice What You’ll Say
At the hearing, speak clearly and respectfully. Explain:
Why you fell into arrears (job loss, illness, unexpected costs)
What you’ve done to address it (cut spending, sought advice)
Your proposed plan to repay arrears
You don’t need legal jargon — just honesty and preparation.
Step 6: Consider a Stop House Repossession Service
If it’s clear you can’t afford the mortgage long-term, showing the judge that you’re in the process of selling can buy time. A stop house repossession service can:
Provide evidence of a pending sale
Complete quickly to redeem your mortgage
Prevent a repossession mark on your credit file
Judges often look favourably on homeowners taking proactive steps.
Step 7: On the Day of the Hearing
Arrive early to speak with the duty adviser.
Bring all your documents and your defence form copy.
Turn off your phone and address the judge as “Sir” or “Madam.”
Stay calm; you’ll usually only have 5–10 minutes to present your case.
Hypothetical Scenario: “Clare’s Day in Court”
Clare missed five mortgage payments after illness. She completed her defence form, gathered documents, and contacted a stop house repossession service that provided proof of an impending sale. At the hearing, the judge granted an adjournment to allow the sale to complete. Clare paid off her mortgage and avoided a repossession mark.
Preparation Creates Opportunities
A repossession hearing is serious, but it’s also your chance to show the court you’re taking action. By understanding the process, seeking advice, organising your evidence, and using a stop house repossession service if necessary, you can protect your home and your future.