{"id":170,"date":"2025-06-12T10:38:00","date_gmt":"2025-06-12T10:38:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/mccambridgeduffy.ie\/articles\/?p=170"},"modified":"2025-06-12T11:54:42","modified_gmt":"2025-06-12T11:54:42","slug":"facing-repossession-in-ireland","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/mccambridgeduffy.ie\/articles\/facing-repossession-in-ireland\/","title":{"rendered":"Repossession advice in Ireland"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Repossession Dos and Don\u2019ts for Irish Homeowners<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Falling behind on your mortgage can feel stressful and isolating but there are options available.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Whether you\u2019re already in arrears or can see financial trouble on the horizon, there is a clear process in place that lenders must follow. This article explains the rights that you have, guidance on how to respond quickly to lenders, and information on seeking the right help when needed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

What Protections are in Place when dealing with repossession?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The Code of Conduct on Mortgage Arrears (CCMA)<\/strong>, issued by the Central Bank of Ireland, provides strong protections for homeowners when their primary residence is at risk. This code lays out exactly how lenders must engage with borrowers that are in arrears or facing arrears.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The MARP Process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

One key part of the CCMA is the Mortgage Arrears Resolution Process (MARP)<\/strong>. This is a structured process that lenders must follow when working with you to find a solution. It covers everything from initial communication and the Standard Financial Statement (SFS) <\/strong>to proposing an Alternative Repayment Arrangement (ARA)<\/strong> or other resolution.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If no sustainable agreement can be reached, or if legal proceedings begin, then a PIA<\/strong> (Personal Insolvency Arrangement)<\/strong> may be a possible solution. A PIA is a formal agreement available through a PIP (Personal Insolvency Practitioner)<\/strong>, where debts (including mortgage arrears) can be restructured in a way that is fair, affordable and manageable, allowing you to protect your home from repossession.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

At McCambridge Duffy, our role as PIP is to explore these formal options with you, especially when repossession is being considered or threatened.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Dos and Don\u2019ts<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\u2705 DO: Engage with your lender early<\/strong>
As soon as you realise there\u2019s a problem, make contact. Lenders are required to work with you to try and find a resolution through MARP, but they can only do that if you co-operate.<\/td>		\u274c DON\u2019T: Ignore their calls or letters<\/strong>
Non-engagement can be considered as being uncooperative, which could limit your options. Stay in touch with your lender, even if you\u2019re not sure what to do yet.<\/td><\/tr>
\u2705 DO: Understand the MARP process<\/strong>
The MARP process outlines how lenders must treat you; from timelines to communication to decision-making. You can find useful resources on your local Citizens Information<\/a> website.<\/td>		\u274c DON\u2019T: Assume your lender has all the power<\/strong>
You have rights under the CCMA. If you feel your lender is not following the MARP process properly, you can raise a complaint or appeal their decisions internally.<\/td><\/tr>
\u2705 DO: Fill out the Standard Financial Statement (SFS) carefully<\/strong>
The SFS provides a full picture of your financial situation. Completing it accurately is key to getting a workable resolution with your lender. If you’re unsure, ask for help, either from the lender, or contact our team at McCambridge Duffy for free advice.<\/td>		\u274c DON\u2019T: Ignore paperwork<\/strong>
Lenders can\u2019t help if you delay in completing relevant paperwork. Provide all requested documentation within the agreed timeframes or let them know if you need more time.<\/td><\/tr>
\u2705 DO: Seek independent advice<\/strong>
If repossession proceedings have started or if you\u2019re stuck in an unaffordable agreement with your lender, it may be time to speak with a member of our advice team at McCambridge Duffy. We have several PIPs available, who will help you determine if a PIA is the right option to protect your family home.
If PIA is a suitable option, you may also be entitled to free insolvency support under the Abhaile Scheme<\/strong>; a free service that entitles homeowners in arrears to professional advice from a PIP, solicitor or accountant.<\/td>		\u274c DON\u2019T: Think its too late for support<\/strong>
If creditors have already started repossession proceedings against you, that doesn\u2019t mean it\u2019s too late for a PIA. A PIP can still assess your eligibility. A PIA may offer a way forward whilst protecting your home.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

When to Talk to a PIP<\/h2>\n\n\n\n