Renting out your property
Settling disputes
You can often sort out disputes with your tenants without going to court:
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Speak to your tenants about your concerns.
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If this does not work, write a formal letter setting out the problem.
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Use a mediation service, which is usually cheaper and quicker than going to court.
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As a last resort, you can take your tenants to court.
There are different rules for settling disputes in Scotland and settling disputes in Northern Ireland.
Going to court
If you take legal action, the case may go to a small claims court. Small claims cases are those worth less than £10,000 (or £1,000 if the case is about repairs to a property).
The courts provide a free mediation service for small claims cases, which can take place over the phone.
If you want to get your property back because your tenants owe you rent money, you can make a possession claim online.
You must follow specific rules if you want to evict tenants.
Free advice for disputes
You can get free advice from Shelter and free advice from Citizens Advice about disputes and housing problems.
In Wales, you can contact Shelter Cymru.
You might be able to get free and confidential legal advice from Civil Legal Advice (CLA) as part of legal aid, if you’re in England and Wales.
A solicitor can also help you, but they might charge a fee.