Facing court action? Don't give up!

If you are a homeowner, your home can only be repossessed if the court makes an order telling you to leave. The courts will only do this in certain circumstances.

Homes are most commonly repossessed because of mortgage arrears or arrears on a secured loan.

This section contains information that may help you:

• Learn what to expect if your lender seeks possession
• Get ready for court
• Attend your court hearing
• Identify possible defences
• Learn what the court can decide
• Understand the conditions if you are allowed to stay in your home.

Even if the repossession process has already started, you may be able to keep your home. Whether you can stop the process will depend on why the lender is taking action and what you can do to put things right.

Your lender should be taking reasonable steps to come to a repayment agreement with you prior to taking you to court and only revert to possession as a last resort.  Watch our specially filmed video to find out what really happens at a possession hearing in Northern Ireland.

Find out the steps you can take to prevent repossession of your home. Download the Mortgage Debt Advice Service Tips & Contact leaflet with information on dealing with mortgage arrears.