Fewer NI families facing repossession

The latest NI Repossession statistics have been published by the Courts and Tribunal Service, showing a welcome fall in cases reaching court.  The report shows statistics for October – December 2014.

Decreases seen in cases received, disposed and orders made

• There were 579 cases received (writs and originating summonses issued) between October - December 2014, a 27% decrease from the same period in 2013 (796). This is the lowest volume of cases received during the October - December quarter since 2007, when 542 cases were received.
• There were 556 mortgage cases disposed of between October - December 2014, a 21% decrease from the same period in 2013 (708).
• There were 569 orders made between October - December 2014, a 24% decrease from the same period in 2013 (746).

Housing Rights Service help those facing repossession

Ursula Toner, Housing Rights Service Advice Services Manager, commented that although there is a decrease seen in the courts, that is not reflected in the numbers of people still seeking advice for mortgage debt issues.

“We welcome any reduction in the numbers of families faced with the prospect of losing their homes. Unfortunately we are not seeing a decrease in the numbers of people approaching us for help.  We want people to know that free help is available and while there can be more options the earlier help is sought, it really is never too late.”

Housing Rights Service operates a dedicated Mortgage Debt Advice Service on behalf of the Department for Social Development. It also provides emergency representation at Court.

It is important that even when a court date has been set people should attend. Housing Rights Service has representatives at the courts to provide emergency advice and assistance to those attending and, if appropriate, accompany people to their hearings.

People experiencing difficulty with mortgage or secured loan debt can contact Housing Rights Service on 0300 3230310 or visit our public advice website www.housingadviceNI.org which is funded by the Northern Ireland Housing Executive.