{"id":393,"date":"2023-05-24T14:03:45","date_gmt":"2023-05-24T14:03:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/lezemoresolicitors.co.uk\/wordpress\/?page_id=393"},"modified":"2026-04-16T11:46:25","modified_gmt":"2026-04-16T11:46:25","slug":"residential-landlord-and-tenant-disputes","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/lezemoresolicitors.co.uk\/wordpress\/residential-landlord-and-tenant-disputes\/","title":{"rendered":"Residential Landlord and Tenant Disputes"},"content":{"rendered":"

Residential Landlord and Tenant Disputes<\/h2>\n

Whether you’re a landlord or a tenant in a residential property in England, disputes can arise over issues like rent payments, property condition, deposits, possession, or tenancy terms. We provide clear advice to both sides in Hertfordshire and Essex.<\/h5>\n

The law governing most private rented tenancies has changed significantly with the Renters’ Rights Act 2025, which received Royal Assent in October 2025. The key reforms \u2014including the abolition of assured shorthold tenancies (ASTs) and Section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions \u2014 take effect from 1 May 2026. From that date, almost all private tenancies convert automatically to **assured periodic tenancies** (open-ended, rolling month to month), and landlords can no longer end a tenancy without a valid legal reason under the updated Section 8 grounds.
\nImportant note on timing: The advice on this page reflects the current position as of March 2026. Until 30 April 2026, Section 21 notices can still be served for valid ASTs (with transitional rules allowing some court proceedings after 1 May if notices were served earlier). From 1 May 2026 onwards, Section 21 is abolished, fixed terms become ineffective, and the new periodic tenancy regime applies fully to both existing and new tenancies. If your situation involves a tenancy starting or a notice served around these dates, the rules may differ depending on exact timing \u2014 contact us for advice tailored to your circumstances.Court Proceedings Information<\/a>
\n\"Becoming<\/p>\n

Contact J L Lezemore Solicitors covering Hertfordshire and Essex<\/h2>\n

Do you need help with a Civil Dispute?\u00a0 Call or email us today for clear, practical advice \u2013 no matter where you are based, we can offer flexible appointments by phone, email or virtually (via zoom).
\nThe sooner we review your case, the more options you usually have. We look forward to helping you resolve it efficiently
\nPlease visit our\u00a0contact page<\/a>\u00a0for more information.For tenants:<\/p>\n

Unfair or excessive rent increases (under the new rules, increases must follow specific procedures and can be challenged)
\nDisrepair or failure to meet the Decent Homes Standard (landlords must keep properties safe and habitable)
\nProblems with deposit protection or return (deposits must be protected in a scheme; disputes go to free adjudication)
\nUnlawful eviction attempts
\nRequests for pets or other changes (tenants have stronger rights to ask, with landlords needing good reasons to refuse).<\/p>\n

For landlords:<\/p>\n

Rent arrears (new or amended Section 8 grounds include thresholds for arrears and repeat late payments)
\nProperty damage beyond normal wear and tear
\nBreaches of tenancy obligations
\nRegaining possession for valid reasons (e.g., landlord\/family moving in, selling the property\u2014subject to notice periods and a 12-month protected period in the first year where certain grounds can’t be used).<\/p>\n

Key laws include:<\/p>\n

Housing Act 1988 (as amended by the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 for possession grounds)
\nLandlord and Tenant Act 1985 (repairs and fitness for habitation)
\nTenant Fees Act 2019 (bans most fees)
\nDeposit protection rules.<\/p>\n

How disputes are usually resolved:<\/p>\n

Start with direct communication \u2014 many issues settle with a polite but firm letter or discussion.
\nUse free or low-cost schemes: Property Ombudsman (for member agents\/landlords), deposit adjudication services, or mediation.
\nIf needed, court action: Possession claims go through the County Court (often accelerated for certain grounds). Small claims track suits lower-value money disputes (e.g., deposit returns or compensation for disrepair).<\/p>\n

We act for both landlords and tenants, reviewing tenancy agreements, correspondence, evidence (photos, emails, rent records), and advising on next steps\u2014whether negotiating a resolution, drafting formal notices\/claims, or preparing for court\/ADR. Our goal is always proportionate, cost-effective outcomes that avoid unnecessary escalation.
\nNeed help with a landlord-tenant issue?<\/p>\n

We advise on<\/h2>\n

Boundary Disputes<\/h4>\n

Boundary disputes are among the most common and most stressful types of civil disputes.<\/p>\n

Partnership & Business Disputes<\/h4>\n

If a business or personal relationship goes sour, then it may be necessary to seek legal advice.<\/p>\n

Setting Aside Judgements<\/h4>\n

If you don\u2019t think you owe the money, then you can apply to have the CCJ set aside.<\/p>\n

Residential Landlord & Tenant Disputes<\/h4>\n

Landlords dealing with a problematic tenant or a tenant who needs advice on dealing with your landlord.<\/p>\n

Dispute Resolution & Meditation<\/h4>\n

Joanne Lezemore is an accredited mediator and assist you in resolving your dispute, no matter how complex.<\/p>\n

Help with Construction Disputes<\/h4>\n

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Offering advice at an affordable price, value for money and from the comfort of your own home.<\/h3>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Residential Landlord and Tenant Disputes Whether you’re a landlord or a tenant in a residential property in England, disputes can arise over issues like rent payments, [\u2026]<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":394,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-393","page","type-page","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry"],"yoast_head":"\nResidential Landlord and Tenant Disputes - Lezemore Solicitors<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Residential Landlord and Tenant Disputes. Becoming involved in a dispute over a rented property can be stressful. 01279 653 011. 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