Disputes
Landlord and Tenant Disputes
Whether you are a landlord or a tenant, disputes about rent, repairs, deposits or possession can quickly become stressful. Understanding the rules that apply is the first step.
Disputes between landlords and tenants
The rights and obligations of landlords and tenants depend on the type of tenancy or lease, what it says, and the legislation that applies. Residential tenancies are heavily regulated, while commercial leases depend more on the terms agreed between the parties.
The rules on residential tenancies in England have changed significantly in recent years, including under the Renters’ Rights Act 2025. Rules in Wales differ again. Because the law in this area is changing, it is particularly important to get advice based on the current position before taking any formal step.
Many landlord and tenant disputes can be resolved through clear communication, negotiation or mediation. Where formal steps are needed, following the correct procedure is essential, as mistakes can cause delay and extra cost.
Common situations
- Rent arrears or disputes about rent increases
- Disagreements about the return of a tenancy deposit
- Repairs and disrepair, including damp and mould
- Possession proceedings and notices to end a tenancy
- Commercial lease disputes, including dilapidations and service charges
- Disputes about breaches of lease terms
Your options and next steps
For tenancy deposits, landlords of assured shorthold tenancies in England have generally been required to protect deposits in a government-approved scheme and give tenants prescribed information. The deposit schemes offer free dispute resolution services for disputes about deductions at the end of a tenancy.
Disrepair complaints usually start with written notice to the landlord. A pre-action protocol applies to housing conditions claims, encouraging the parties to exchange information and agree repairs where possible.
Where possession is sought, the correct notice and procedure must be followed. The requirements depend on the type of tenancy and the current legislation, and getting them wrong can invalidate the process.
Commercial lease disputes, such as dilapidations claims, often turn on the specific wording of the lease and are frequently resolved through negotiation supported by expert reports.
Documents and evidence that may help
You do not need to have everything before you contact us, but the following can help us understand your situation more quickly:
- The tenancy agreement or lease, and any renewals
- Deposit protection certificate and prescribed information, if applicable
- A rent statement or record of payments
- Inventories, check-in and check-out reports and photographs
- Letters, emails or texts about repairs or the dispute
- Any notices served by either party, with dates of service
How we assess your enquiry
- Tell us what happened. Use the enquiry form, call or email with a short summary.
- We review the details. We may ask a few questions or request key documents.
- We explain your options. Including whether your matter is one we can help with.
- You decide. Nothing goes further until you have agreed the scope of any work and any fees, confirmed in writing.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to be a landlord or a tenant for you to help?
We can consider enquiries from both landlords and tenants, subject to checking that there is no conflict of interest.
Has section 21 been abolished?
The Renters’ Rights Act 2025 reforms how residential tenancies in England can be ended, including the removal of “no-fault” section 21 evictions. Different transitional rules and timings may apply, so please seek advice on the current position for your tenancy.
What can I do if my deposit has not been returned?
Contact the landlord or agent in writing first. If the deposit was protected, the relevant scheme’s free dispute resolution service may be available. If it was not protected, other remedies may apply.
Can a tenant withhold rent because of disrepair?
Withholding rent carries real risks, including possession proceedings for arrears. There are other routes to deal with disrepair, so it is best to seek advice before stopping payments.
Please note: this page gives general information based on the law of England and Wales. Different rules can apply in Scotland and Northern Ireland. It is not legal advice and should not be relied on for your particular situation. Every matter depends on its own facts, and no outcome or level of compensation can be guaranteed.
Free initial consultation
Tell us briefly what has happened and we will explain your possible next steps.
The law is changing
Residential tenancy rules in England have changed recently. Check the current position before serving or responding to any notice.
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Talk to us about your situation
A free initial consultation gives you the chance to explain what has happened and understand your options, with no obligation to go further.
