Landlord & Tenant
Welcome to RakLAW's Landlord & Tenant Legal Services
Welcome to the specialised page of RakLAW offering landlord and tenant legal services. With more than 12 years of experience in legal services and conflict resolution, our staff is dedicated to providing landlords and renters with, professional advise to negotiate the complexity of property law in the United Kingdom.
Are you a landlord dealing with issues such as tenants breaking lease rules, falling behind on rent, or generating conflicts about property maintenance? On the other hand, are you a renter facing problems including disrepair, disputes over deposits, or perhaps illegal harassment? Our staff are here to help you regardless of the type of case you have.
How RakLAW Might Help Landlords
Your primary concern as a landlord is protecting your rental income and ensuring your property is well maintained. We understand the challenges landlords face, from managing late payments to settling repair conflicts. Our services include guidance on repossessing a property under a tenancy agreement, assistance with repairs and disputes over responsibility, and advice on local authority regulations and compliance. For issues related to adherence to council standards, our knowledge of local government law guarantees that your rights are safeguarded throughout the legal process.
How RakLAW Can Assist Tenants
For tenants, a rented property is more than just a place to live-it is your home. RakLAW is here to help. Our team of tenant solicitors is on hand to assist you whether you are experiencing conflicts with your landlord, dealing with repair problems, or facing illegal eviction attempts. We provide legal advice on unlawful evictions and tenant terminations, assist with disrepair claims and deposit disputes, and represent you in matters involving alleged breaches of tenancy agreements. Our goal is to ensure that your rights are maintained and that you receive fair treatment throughout your tenancy.
Why Choose RakLAW for Landlord & Tenant Legal Services?
At RakLAW, your interests are our top priority. We offer dependable legal counsel tailored to your specific situation. Our team of seasoned lawyers has a proven track record of securing the finest results for our clients. With a courteous and proactive approach, we strive to make the legal process as seamless and efficient as possible so that both renters and landlords can proceed with confidence. We are here to help you at every stage of the process, whether your needs include assistance with repossession issues-which may encompass elements of sale of property- or resolving other conflicts.
Contact RakLAW now to schedule a consultation if you need professional legal advice or assistance with any landlord and tenant matter. Let our staff help you achieve a successful resolution tailored to your particular situation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a Section 21 and a Section 8 notice?
A Section 21 notice (under the Housing Act 1988) is a no-fault notice used to end an assured shorthold tenancy after the fixed term, with at least two months’ written notice. A Section 8 notice is fault-based and lists statutory grounds such as rent arrears or anti-social behaviour. The Renters’ Rights Bill is set to abolish Section 21 evictions, so we keep landlord notices under review and recommend the route most likely to lead to a swift possession order.
What is the correct possession proceedings process?
If the tenant does not leave after a valid notice expires, the landlord must apply to the County Court for a possession order, not change the locks or remove belongings. Unlawful eviction is a criminal offence under the Protection from Eviction Act 1977. We prepare the claim, attend the hearing, and instruct High Court Enforcement Officers or county court bailiffs as needed.
What are my rights if my deposit was not properly protected?
Landlords must protect deposits on assured shorthold tenancies in an authorised scheme (DPS, MyDeposits, or TDS) within 30 days and serve prescribed information. If they fail, tenants can claim 1x to 3x the deposit as compensation through the County Court, and a Section 21 notice cannot be served until the position is remedied. We act for tenants pursuing these claims and for landlords defending them.
Who is responsible for repairs in a rented property?
Under Section 11 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 and the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018, the landlord is responsible for keeping the structure, exterior, and key installations (heating, water, sanitation, electrics) in repair. Tenants must report disrepair and use the property in a tenant-like manner. Where landlords fail to act, tenants can claim damages and an order for works.
How are commercial lease disputes resolved?
Commercial lease disputes typically involve rent arrears, dilapidations, service charges, break notices, or renewal under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954. Options include negotiation, Commercial Rent Arrears Recovery (CRAR), forfeiture, court proceedings, or arbitration depending on the lease. We advise landlords and tenants on the best blend of pressure and protection.
How long does it usually take to evict a tenant?
Timescales vary widely. A straightforward accelerated possession claim after a valid Section 21 notice can take roughly 8 to 16 weeks from issue to bailiff appointment, while a defended Section 8 claim with rent arrears can take longer. Court backlogs and procedural challenges from a well-advised tenant can extend this further. We always give realistic timelines up front.
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