Mortgage arrears are a priority debt because the consequence of not paying is losing your home. Repossession is a last resort for lenders — but it's a resort. Ignoring letters or hoping things improve is the single biggest mistake homeowners in trouble make.
The moment you know you'll struggle, contact your lender. Ask about a payment holiday, a temporary switch to interest-only, extending the mortgage term or capitalising the arrears. UK mortgage lenders are expected to consider all reasonable options before applying to court.
If a court hearing is scheduled, you can still turn it around. Attend, take an income and expenditure statement, and be ready to propose realistic monthly payments. Courts typically grant a Suspended Possession Order if you can show you can meet the current payment plus a contribution to arrears.
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