Which areas have the highest repossession rates in England outside of London?

Luton has recorded the highest home repossession rate in England outside London, with 47.14 repossessions per 100,000 people, according to new research.

The study, conducted by legal experts Lawhive, analysed Ministry of Justice data on home repossessions in local authorities outside London for the third quarter of 2024. The findings highlight areas where homeowners are at the greatest risk of losing their homes.

Slough follows Luton closely, ranking second with 44.17 repossessions per 100,000 people, while Southend-on-Sea ranks third with a rate of 30.99. Notably, five of the 10 areas with the highest repossession rates are located in South East England.

Top 10 areas with the highest home repossession rates

1. Luton – 107 repossessions (47.14 per 100,000 people)
2. Slough – 70 repossessions (44.17 per 100,000 people)
3. Southend-on-Sea – 56 repossessions (30.99 per 100,000 people)
4. Burnley – 28 repossessions (29.30 per 100,000 people)
5. Blackpool – 39 repossessions (28.00 per 100,000 people)
6. Medway – 71 repossessions (25.55 per 100,000 people)
7. Southampton – 65 repossessions (25.38 per 100,000 people)
8. Gravesham – 26 repossessions (24.31 per 100,000 people)
9. Manchester – 138 repossessions (23.80 per 100,000 people)
10. Milton Keynes – 65 repossessions (22.25 per 100,000 people)

Factors driving repossession rates

Daniel McAfee, Lawhive’s UK lawyer and head of legal operations, highlighted the financial struggles facing homeowners in these areas.

“This study highlights the significant challenges that homeowners are facing in certain areas, particularly in the South East. Rising living costs are making it increasingly difficult for many residents to keep up with mortgage payments and other bills,” McAfee stated. “It’s crucial for anyone struggling to seek legal advice early, as it can help with deferred payment plans, direct negotiation, alternative dispute resolution (ADR), and court proceedings support—potentially preventing repossession.”

The research gathered data from the Ministry of Justice on mortgage and landlord possessions across England’s local authorities in Q3 2024. These figures were compared with population data to determine repossession rates per 100,000 people. Areas with fewer than 50,000 inhabitants and those within London were excluded from the study.

What factors do you think contribute to high repossession rates? Share your thoughts in the comments below.