How to settle a landlord-tenant dispute?

How to settle a landlord-tenant dispute?

Resolving landlord-tenant disputes includes various methods, depending on the nature of the issue. Effective communication and reaching mutual agreements, formal complaint submission, mediation, or resorting to litigation are among some of the options.

For both landlords and tenants, a smooth rental process is in everyone's best interest. Achieving this involves fair pricing, transparent agreements, and an equitable approach. However, despite efforts to streamline the process, conflicts can still arise.

Regardless of fault, the key to resolving disputes lies in promptly and clearly expressing concerns. Timely articulation of issues ensures that conflicts are brought to the forefront, allowing for collaborative resolutions. Unfortunately, individuals often refrain from taking action simply due to a lack of awareness about existing problems. Recognising and addressing issues early on is crucial for a harmonious resolution process.

Stay calm

Whether you are a landlord or tenant, disputes do occur but it is best not to take them as a personal affront. Instead, remain friendly and try to sort out any problems before resorting to legal action.

Document everything and write a formal letter

If discussions between a landlord and the tenant are not enough to resolve an issue, the next step is to write a formal letter that highlights the specific issue(s). Make sure to include relevant dates, times and information that relate to the problem and any evidence you can collect such as pictures. 

This might be the occurrence of damp or a light switch that no longer works. From a landlord’s perspective, there may be an issue with keeping a pet which was not part of the original tenancy agreement or complaints about excessive noise or damage to a property. If the issues continue and a resolution cannot be agreed, then the next step would be to go to a solicitor who may offer a mediation solution. However, from the moment a dispute begins, remember to keep a record of all correspondence as you may need to access it later down the line. 

Mediation

With mediation, both sides of the issue(s) can be heard without bias, but if this fails, then going to court would be the final resort. You might at this point feel that a compromise is the best solution even though it may seem like a decision has gone against you because settling the dispute at this point might be financially more viable than a costly court case. 

Going to Court

This is the most expensive way to resolve a dispute between a landlord and tenant, and it should only be used when all other avenues have been exhausted. If legal action is taken, it may go to a small claims court if the claim is worth less than £10,000 or £1000. You may also want to consider if the stress of continuing the dispute is worth the impact it might have on your personal life.

How Can GloverPriest Help?

If you would like further advice on landlord and tenant disputes, please don’t hesitate to speak to one of our expert property solicitors today. Complete our enquiry form.