Landlord-tenant disputes aren’t uncommon, but they can usually be resolved relatively easily through open communication.
However, if you cannot seem to resolve the issue, then it may be the time to enlist the help of a specialist dispute resolution solicitor.
What is the first step in resolving landlord and tenant disputes?
The first step in resolving landlord and tenant disputes is to attempt informal negotiations. This includes open and honest forms of communication, such as meeting with one another or through phone calls.
This approach encourages both parties to understand the other person's perspective and therefore facilitate some compromises. Not only this, but it can help to maintain a positive relationship and prevent things ending on a sour note.
Does a landlord legally have to involve a solicitor in tenant disputes?
No, as a landlord you are not legally required to involve a solicitor in a tenant dispute; however, it is highly recommended due to the complexity of some landlord and tenant disputes.
A solicitor can help to interpret tenancy agreements, understand legal rights and obligations for both landlords and tenants and help to represent you in court if necessary. Obtaining the help of a solicitor early on in the dispute can also help to potentially save money on legal fees, and even prevent further complications too.
When does a landlord and tenant dispute need to involve a solicitor?
Ideally, landlord and tenant disputes should involve solicitors when the issue becomes too complex for individuals to resolve themselves or it requires some form of legal action.
Some situations that may require the help of a solicitor include, but are not limited to:
- Significant disrepair issues and property damage
- The landlord is refusing to return a deposit
- The tenant is facing illegal eviction
- There is alleged harassment from either party
- This dispute involves nuanced legal issues
There are many common landlord and tenant disputes that will require the help of a solicitor and not every issue will have the same outcome, which is why it is essential you speak to an experienced solicitor as soon as possible.
Even if you believe you have a good understanding of the law and your rights, whether you are a landlord or tenant, the law can be extremely confusing and complex to understand. This is why we highly advise you to have someone who understands the law completely to help you.
What a solicitor will support with in a landlord and tenant dispute case
Solicitors can help either party in landlord and tenant dispute cases by advising on the best course of action, drafting up legal documents and acting as a representative in court.
One of the most useful ways a solicitor will help in a landlord and tenant dispute case is by providing actionable advice and guidance. Your solicitor will help you to understand your rights and responsibilities, aiding you in understanding the most appropriate route to take for your specific circumstances.
Your solicitor will also support you by drafting up formal legal notices and letters to the other party, as well as helping to initiate legal proceedings. If the issue does go to court, your solicitor will also represent you. If you and the other party would prefer to keep the matter out of the courts to help cut down costs, your solicitor can also support you by facilitating mediation sessions.
Resolving landlord and tenant disputes with AFG Law
At AFG Law, our solicitors have years of experience helping to resolve landlord and tenant disputes.
Our experienced dispute resolution solicitors can advise you on the most appropriate steps to take based on your individual circumstances. Our aim is to resolve disputes between landlords and tenants quickly and as cost effectively as possible to keep both parties from considering court; however, we can represent you in court if the issue cannot be resolved with alternative methods.
If you are a landlord or a tenant and you are experiencing difficulties with the other party, get in touch with our professional team today to see how we can help you.