Landlord & Tenant Disputes
Specialist landlord and tenant dispute solicitors — representing landlords in breach of tenancy, unlawful eviction allegations, property condition disputes, access issues and regulatory enforcement.
As experienced housing solicitors, we know that early legal advice almost always produces a better outcome than waiting. Whether you face a disrepair claim, a Section 11 allegation or a local authority enforcement notice — we provide a clear plan.
Types of Disputes We Handle
Breach of Tenancy
Where a tenant has breached the terms of their tenancy agreement — subletting, property damage, nuisance or other breaches.
Disrepair & Section 11 Allegations
Defending landlords against disrepair claims and Section 11 Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 allegations — habitability, heating, hot water and structural issues.
Access Disputes
Where a tenant refuses access for inspections, repairs or gas safety checks — advising on the correct legal approach under the 24-hour notice rules.
Regulatory Enforcement
Responding to local authority improvement notices, prohibition orders and hazard awareness notices under the Housing Act 2004.
Unlawful Eviction — Know the Risks
The Protection from Eviction Act 1977 makes it a criminal offence to unlawfully deprive a residential occupier of their home — or to harass them into leaving. This includes changing locks, removing belongings, cutting off utilities or making threats.
Landlords who take matters into their own hands — even where the tenant is clearly in the wrong — risk criminal prosecution and civil claims for damages. The correct route is always through the courts.
We advise landlords on the lawful process for recovering possession and ensure that every step taken is legally defensible. If you are facing a landlord tenant dispute involving an unlawful eviction allegation, contact us immediately.
Key Legislation
Protection from Eviction Act 1977
Prohibits unlawful eviction and harassment of residential occupiers.
Section 11 Landlord and Tenant Act 1985
Imposes repairing obligations on landlords for structure, exterior and installations.
Housing Act 2004
Governs local authority enforcement powers, improvement notices and licensing.
Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 (hot water)
Requires landlords to maintain heating and hot water installations in working order.
Early Advice Prevents Escalation
Many landlord and tenant disputes escalate unnecessarily because landlords delay seeking legal advice. Early intervention — even a single letter from a solicitor — often resolves matters before they reach court.
We provide clear, commercially focused advice on the options available to you, the likely outcomes and the costs involved. You will always know where you stand.
Act Early
The sooner you seek advice, the more options you have. Early intervention is almost always cheaper than litigation.
Clear Advice
We tell you honestly what your options are, what the likely outcome is and what it will cost.
Proportionate Response
Not every dispute requires court proceedings. We advise on the most proportionate and cost-effective approach.
FAQs
Common Questions About Landlord Disputes
What counts as unlawful eviction?
Unlawful eviction occurs when a landlord removes or attempts to remove a tenant without following the correct legal process — for example, changing locks, removing belongings or cutting off utilities. The Protection from Eviction Act 1977 makes this a criminal offence. We advise landlords on the correct legal route to avoid exposure to claims.
What can I do if a tenant refuses access for repairs or inspections?
Under Section 11 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, landlords have a right of access on 24 hours' written notice to carry out repairs. If a tenant refuses, we can advise on the correct legal approach — including injunctive relief in serious cases.
What is a Section 11 Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 obligation?
Section 11 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 imposes a statutory duty on landlords to keep the structure, exterior, and installations (heating, hot water, sanitation) of a dwelling in repair. Tenants can bring disrepair claims under this section. We advise landlords on their obligations and defend disrepair allegations.
Can a tenant claim compensation for disrepair?
Yes. Where a landlord has failed to carry out repairs after being notified, a tenant can claim damages for disrepair — including rent reduction, personal injury and damage to belongings. Early legal advice is essential to limit exposure.
What should I do if I receive a local authority enforcement notice?
You should seek legal advice immediately. Improvement notices, prohibition orders and hazard awareness notices carry significant consequences if ignored. We advise on the correct response, appeal rights and timescales.
Our Team
Speak to a Member of Our Team
Jane Clutton
Director & Solicitor
Jane has almost 30 years' experience resolving landlord and tenant disputes. She provides clear, commercially focused advice on your options and the likely outcomes — and she acts quickly, because early intervention almost always produces a better result than waiting. Whether it is a breach of tenancy, a disrepair allegation, an unlawful eviction claim or a regulatory notice, Jane will give you a plan.
Discuss Your Landlord Dispute
Tell us about your dispute and we will advise on the best approach.
Prefer to call? 01244 757352