Landlord & Tenant, Mortgage Cases
The Landlord and Tenant Act outlines the position of the landlord and their rights in situations that may arise, as well as protecting the rights of the tenant in circumstances where their position may be threatened. Maintaining a positive relationship between both the landlord and tenant is highly important and can reap many benefits for both parties.
At Parker Thomas, our housing solicitors and barristers understand the needs and priorities of the tenants, as well as the property agents and landlords. For tenants, we understand the importance of having a safe place to live. For landlords, we appreciate that the main priority and concern is to protect the investment and rental income of the property. Ultimately, we aim to prevent problems, but when they do arise; our focus is on resolving the issue quickly and minimising your cost.
Our range of services for landlords starts from setting up a tenancy agreement to recovering possession of a property. Given our extensive experience, we can assist landlords in defending claims arising from tenants. Here’s how we can assist you:
- Tenancy Agreement Drafting and Review:
We understand the importance of a well-drafted tenancy agreement that protects your rights as a landlord while outlining clear expectations for tenants. Our legal experts will carefully draft or review your tenancy agreements, ensuring they comply with all relevant regulations and cover essential terms, such as rent, security deposits, and maintenance responsibilities.
- Compliance with Legal Obligations:
Navigating the maze of regulations can be daunting for landlords. We’ll keep you informed of your legal obligations concerning safety certifications, energy performance, and other property-related compliance requirements. Staying compliant not only avoids legal issues but also ensures the safety and well-being of your tenants.
- Tenant Screening and Selection:
Selecting reliable and responsible tenants is crucial for a successful tenancy. We’ll provide guidance on proper tenant screening, helping you identify trustworthy candidates who will maintain your property and pay rent on time.
- Handling Rent Arrears:
If your tenants fall behind on rent payments, our legal team will assist you in the process of recovering unpaid rent, offering guidance on the appropriate steps to take while adhering to the legal framework.
- Tenancy Renewals and Terminations:
When it’s time to renew a tenancy or if you need to terminate a tenancy, our lawyers will ensure the process is executed legally and efficiently. We’ll help you navigate through the complexities and potential challenges involved.
- Dispute Resolution:
Should any conflicts arise between you and your tenants, our skilled negotiators and litigators will work diligently to resolve disputes through alternative dispute resolution methods or represent you in court if necessary.
- Eviction Assistance:
In cases where eviction is unavoidable, our team will guide you through the eviction process, ensuring it is done lawfully and compassionately.
- Portfolio Management:
For landlords with multiple properties, our firm can provide portfolio management services, ensuring all your properties are well-maintained, compliant, and efficiently managed.
How much will it cost me?
Service of Statutory Notice £300 + VAT per notice (personal service additional cost) | Drafting and service of the necessary statutory notices together with merit advice. |
S21 Accelerated Court Proceedings £750 + VAT (ex. disbursements) Court fees also payable at rates fixed by HMCTS |
Drafting and service upon tenant of relevant Claim form, Particulars of Claim and Witness Statement Only |
S8 Standard Court Proceedings £1500 + VAT (ex. disbursements) Court fees also payable at rates fixed by HMCTS |
Drafting and service upon tenant of relevant Claim form, Particulars of Claim, drafting witness statements only. |
First Possession Hearing Attendance £600 + VAT (ex. disbursements) Court fees also payable at rates fixed by HMCTS |
Attendance at Court for the first hearing only. |
Document drafting for Shorthold Tenancy Agreement £750 + VAT | Drafting of a standard Assured Shorthold Tenancy Agreement. |
Enforcement for Possessions Orders starting at £400 + VAT plus applicable Court fee and bailiff fee. |
What types of disputes we can help you with?
For Landlords we can assist you with a range of issues such as:
- Defending actions by tenants
- Disputes about repairs
- Health and Safety Proceedings
- Increasing Rent
- Problems with the Council
- Recovering Possession
- Recovering Rent Arrears
- Serving Section 21 Notice
- Serving Section 8 Notice
Tenant Services
On the other hand, whilst the majority of landlords are familiar with their legal responsibilities, many tend to overlook the obligations that they owe to their tenants; whether prior to the commencement of the tenancy, during the course of the tenancy and at the end of the tenancy. Sometimes premises are not fit for habitation or need substantial repair. On other occasions landlords ask tenants to leave the premises at very short notice. We can stop illegal evictions.
We also undertaking work for housing disrepair. For information relating to this click here.
Our specialist housing lawyers work very hard to ensure that an outstanding service is provided for tenants. We no longer hold a legal aid contract for assisting tenants. Other funding options are available.
What types of disputes we can help you with?
For tenants we can advise you on all types of disputes including:
- Anti-Social Behaviour Possession Proceedings
- Defending Evictions
- Disrepair Claims
- Environmental Health Concerns
- Nuisance and Nuisance based Possession Proceedings
- Problems with the Council
- Rent Arrears
- Rental Possession by Private Landlords & Housing Associations
- Tenancy Agreements
- Tenancy Deposit Issues
- Tenant’s Rights and Responsibilities
Mortgage
We fully understand that some people can find themselves in financial difficulties resulting in falling behind their mortgage payments. At Parker Thomas, our experience solicitors can assist you with dealing with your mortgage providers and/or banks to help you resolve this problem swiftly.
We have in some of our cases successfully prevented mortgage companies from seeking or adding legal costs on your mortgage account.
We can help with;
- Mortgage Arrears
- Mortgage Evictions
- Mortgage Fraud
- Mortgage Possession Proceedings
- Negotiating arrears
- Negotiating repayment plans
More information regarding our prices please see this link.
Educational Resources for Landlords:
We believe in empowering landlords with knowledge to make informed decisions. Our website offers a dedicated section filled with valuable resources such as guides, FAQs, and legal updates, covering various aspects of landlord-tenant relationships and property management.
Your Partner in Landlord Success:
At Parker Thomas we are committed to assisting landlords in navigating the complexities of UK landlord-tenant law. Our team’s expertise, personalised approach, and dedication to client satisfaction set us apart as your reliable legal partner. With us by your side, you can be confident in protecting your investments and ensuring harmonious landlord-tenant relationships.