We have considerable experience in resolving many landlord and tenant disputes that can arise in relation to residential properties.
Our specialist team generally provide 3 types of services:
- Services to landlords or property owners to recover possession of residential properties from tenants or unauthorised occupiers
Handling a dispute with a tenant can be a frustrating experience, especially with the relevant laws appearing to provide greater protection for problem tenants than landlords. However, a failure to handle matters properly can result in serious consequences, including having to pay out to defend an unwarranted claim, or enter proceedings to formally recover a property.
The types of matters where we regularly act for landlords include:
- Drafting and arranging service of notices
- Bringing possession proceedings to end a tenancy agreement
- Issuing and obtaining warrants for the eviction of tenants
- Recovering rent arrears, service charges and ground rent arrears
- Removing trespassers
- Dealing with problem tenants
We operate standard undefended possession cases by way of fixed fees for each stage. This allows you to understand the costs involved in taking matters forward. Please note that we cannot obtain legal aid for this type of work and we are unable to provide free advice. Also, cases that are challenged or defended will incur additional fees – any additional costs will be discussed and agreed with you should the situation arise.
- Services to landlords and tenants in relation to longer lease issues such as requests for lease extensions or purchase of freehold interests.
- General property issues/disputes such as adverse possession, rights of way, rights of light, flooding and nuisance.
Many landlord and tenant disputes require the service of notices and issuing of possession proceedings as the only way to obtain possession.
The law on residential properties can be technical, and a failure to follow the necessary legal requirements, both at the outset and during the tenancy, can lead to serious legal issues for landlords in recovering their property or tenants obtaining lease extensions. General property disputes can also be technical and difficult, both on the facts and the law.
Most disputes can be resolved by a simple, honest conversation between the different parties involved and this is often the best course of action; however, if matters go further than this, there are options we can try before undertaking court proceedings. Expert legal advice can ensure that a dispute is brought to a satisfying conclusion, quickly and efficiently.
Our solicitors provide practical advice to resolve disputes by taking the right legal action based on the circumstances of your case.
