Settling disputes

You can often sort out disputes with your tenants without going to court:

  1. Speak to your tenants about your concerns.

  2. If this does not work, write a formal letter setting out the problem.

  3. Use a mediation service, which is usually cheaper and quicker than going to court.

  4. As a last resort, you can take your tenants to court.

There are different rules for and .

Going to court

If you take legal action, the case may go to a small claims court. Small claims cases are those worth 拢10,000 or less (or 拢1,000 if the case is about repairs to a property).

If you鈥檙e making a claim of 拢10,000 or less and the defendant disputes it, you鈥檒l be told you must attend mediation. The court will organise this mediation. This service is free and takes place over the phone. Find out about resolving a claim through mediation.

If you want to get your property back because your tenants owe you rent money, you can .

You must follow specific rules if you want to evict tenants.

Free advice for disputes

You can get and about disputes and housing problems.

In Wales, you can contact .

You might be able to get free and confidential legal advice from Civil Legal Advice (CLA) as part of legal aid, if you鈥檙e in England and Wales.

A solicitor can also help you, but they might charge a fee.