While we all want to get along with the neighbours, there are times when you need to know the rights and obligations that come with your situation.

Whether you rent, own or let, if someone else is disturbing your use and enjoyment of the property then it may be time to act. Our dedicated and knowledgeable team of solicitors are able to provide advice on housing issues.

Our solicitors for housing issues can help you with:

Housing allocation by councils

If you’re experiencing problems with a rehousing application, maybe you are on a waiting list or have had an application turned down, you may need some legal advice from one of our housing solicitors. We are aware of the policies that local authorities use when deciding how to allocate housing and can ensure you put forward the best case possible when applying for rehousing.

Land disputes with adjoining properties

Introducing the Party Wall Act was introduced to try and minimise disputes between neighbours when working is being carried out at a property. The act covers work to shared walls but can also include work carried out close to neighbouring boundaries or buildings.  

A property owner should inform their neighbours about any work they intend to carry out which would affect shared walls or work carried out near boundaries. This gives the neighbour an opportunity to agree or object to the plans. If a neighbour does not agree to the work, this does not necessarily mean it cannot go ahead. In these cases an independent surveyor can be appointed to decide what work can be done, and how and when. If you receive a party wall notice you may wish to speak to a specialist housing issues solicitor who can advise what to do, we can also help if you need to issue a party wall notice.

Boundary disputes

Where many of us live in very close proximity to our neighbours, there can sometimes come a time where confusion may occur regarding boundaries. Speedy legal advice can hopefully resolve any boundary disputes amicably and fairly. Boundary disputes can cover anything from disagreements over boundary lines to agreeing on who is responsible for the maintenance of shared areas. Sometimes changes have occurred over time and the help of a specialist housing dispute solicitor is all that is required.

Nuisance, noise and anti-social behaviour

Living in close proximity to our neighbours can sometimes prove to be difficult when disagreements arise. If left unresolved, something which started small can grow over time and become much bigger, turning into a major dispute. It is always important to tackle any issues as soon as they arise and try to stay on good terms with your neighbours. Disputes can arise for many reasons, noise complaints, disagreements about rights of way, arguments over shared driveways down to the maintenance of hedges and trees.

It’s always best to try and resolve issues yourself, quite often, being prepared to talk and negotiate with your neighbour is all that is needed. However, when things do start to boil over, seeking legal advice may be the best option.

Landlord and Tenant Issues

Whether you are a landlord with one or multiple properties, or a tenant, you both need to keep to your legal obligations. Sadly there are times, despite the efforts of both parties, where things don't go to plan. When this happens it is best to seek legal advice from an experienced housing issues solicitor.

Council and Housing Association issues

You may be a tenant facing eviction or living in unsuitable accommodation and need advice on what steps to take to prevent an illegal eviction, remaining in your home after building up rent or mortgage arrears, or securing repairs and claiming compensation if your rented property is unfit to live in. Landlords must follow strict laws, particularly where the eviction of tenants and repossession of property occurs, otherwise, their actions could be deemed illegal, it is always a very good idea to take advice from a specialist housing issue solicitor to ensure the correct legal process is followed.

To find out more information or to discuss a particular housing issue with one of our solicitors, please get in touch.