Considering the case for a Housing Court
Landlords should be aware that the potential of a new Housing Court is back on the Government’s agenda. It forms part of the Government’s commitment to everyone having a secure and safe place to live.
Why is this happening?
Tenants, landlords and agents can all bring a range of housing issues to the courts or First-tier Tribunal, which allows them to try and resolve disputes and enforce their rights. Concerns have been raised that the current system does not always work as effectively as it could.
Tenants and landlords have both suggested that it can be difficult and costly for them to bring a case to court. A specialist Housing Court could help in reducing delays and improving the service for those who need it.
In November, the Government launched a call for evidence, ‘Considering the case for a Housing Court’, which you can read here.
How can you take part in the consultation?
The call for evidence closes on 22 January 2019.
You can respond by completing an online survey here.
Alternatively, you can email your response to the questions in the call for evidence to HousingCourtConsiderations@communities.gov.uk
How could a Housing Court affect landlords?
It should make it easier, and more cost-effective, for your tenants to redress their issue. Whatever the outcome, we would continue to advise all our landlord clients that seeking legal advice at an early stage of a housing complaint, about the merits of any claim, could prevent matters from escalating. We have a highly experienced Property Disputes team at Greenwoods GRM who are on hand to help with any issues.
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