Expert Solicitors for Rent & Service Charge Disputes

Withholding service charges can be risky as it may constitute a breach of your lease. However, you can challenge unreasonable charges through the proper channels. Our service charge disputes solicitors advise on the best approach, which may include requesting itemised breakdowns, making formal challenges, or applying to the tribunal under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985.

Under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, landlords must consult tenants before carrying out major works above a certain threshold (currently £250 per tenant). Failure to properly consult can render charges recoverable for the excess over the statutory limit. Our service charge negotiations solicitors advise both landlords on compliance and tenants on challenging non-compliant charges.

Yes, if your lease contains a rent clause breach covenant, the landlord may be entitled to forfeit the lease for non-payment of rent. However, landlords must follow proper procedures and often must give tenants the opportunity to remedy the breach. Our tenant eviction solicitors advise tenants on defending against forfeiture and applying for relief from forfeiture.

You can challenge a rent review by reviewing the surveyor's methodology, comparing market evidence, and checking the lease interpretation. If agreement cannot be reached, either party can refer the dispute to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) for determination. Our rent review solicitors guide you through this process.

You should keep all service charge demands, receipts, invoices for works, contractor agreements, correspondence with landlords, and any accounts provided. Under the RICS Service Charge Code, landlords should provide transparent, itemised accounts annually. Our solicitors advise tenants on requesting and challenging service charge accounts.

There is no fixed limitation period, but you should challenge charges promptly. Service charge demands should be challenged within a reasonable time, typically before payment is due or shortly after. Our service charge disputes solicitors advise on timing to ensure you preserve your challenge rights.

This depends on your lease terms. Some leases allow tenants to carry out works and offset costs against service charges, while others do not. You should check your lease carefully before incurring costs. Our lease review solicitors advise on your rights and obligations regarding repairs and service charges.

Costs depend on complexity and whether the matter settles or proceeds to tribunal. We offer transparent, fixed-fee quotes where possible and hourly rates for ongoing matters. For details on our legal fees, please contact our team. Early legal advice often prevents escalation and reduces overall costs.