Middlesbrough has most repossession claims in England and Wales

Middlesbrough has most repossession claims in England and Wales

Middlesbrough had the most repossession claims in England and Wales in the last six months, holding 44.3 mortgage possession claims per 100,000 households.

This was followed by Oldham, in the North West, at 43.6, and Thurrock in the east at 43.2, sellhousefast.co.uk, who help homeowners with the prospect of repossession, found.

Robby Du Toit, managing director of Sellhousefast.uk, said: “The prospect of repossession is daunting – and rightly so. Every year, it is expected 100,000 families in the UK will lose their homes to missed mortgage payments.

“However, it is important to remember there are resources that can provide guidance, help and comfort relative to your circumstance – should you face a possession claim or order.

“In the first instance, I would recommend speaking to a legal adviser and in turn, your lender.

“You can talk to your lender about your arrears at any point, even if they’ve started legal action. Communication – at all levels – is key.”

Sellhousefast found the City of London had the highest rate of mortgage possession claims, at 59 per 100,000 households.

However, this corresponded to just three properties due to a smaller population.

The three local authorities with the fewest mortgage possession claims were Islington (2.7 per 100,000 households), South Northamptonshire (2.6) and Cambridge at 1.9.

The Isles of Scilly, Ryedale, Rutland and Tewkesbury were found to have no mortgage possession claims.

Ministry of Justice reported the number of mortgage possession claims and orders made in county courts has increased in the last 6 months so Sellhousefast.uk investigated and analysed the data.

Debt charity, StepChange mortgage claimed arrears is – jointly with council tax – the biggest source of debt in households across the UK, at 31%.

They declared household mortgages or secured loan debt remains the highest priority bill, for homeowners in England and Wales.