Business agreements should always be formally documented, and failing to do so is a recipe for dispute in the future. Recently, the Court of Appeal dismissed a man's appeal against the rejection of his claim that he had been promised a 50 per cent share in...
When disagreements arise over residential property letting, it is important to tackle them quickly before they escalate. Our experienced landlord and tenant dispute solicitors can represent you in finding a prompt and effective solution.
We have a high level of expertise in the rental property sector, representing tenants and landlords, including those with substantial property portfolios and those with a single rental property. We routinely deal with complex and entrenched disputes, and we have a strong track record of success.
Wherever possible, we aim to deal with matters without the need for litigation, as this is generally faster and more cost-effective. If it is necessary to take your case to court, we will ensure you have the strongest possible case and expert representation.
Contact our landlord and tenant solicitors in Bexleyheath, Dartford and Orpington
To speak to one of T G Baynes’ expert landlord and tenant solicitors in Bexleyheath, Dartford and Orpington, or, or to arrange an initial consultation, please fill in our simple enquiry form or call 020 8301 7777.
Why work with our landlord and tenant solicitors?
Our landlord and tenant team have many years of experience in handling rental disputes. We know how disruptive this type of case can be, and we always aim to find the fastest and most effective solution.
If your case needs to be decided by the court, we will ensure that you have a comprehensive case and that all available evidence is provided in support. You will be represented by an expert, and we will always work to move matters forward as quickly as possible.
For more information on our services, see our disputes over land, property and boundaries page.
Landlord and tenant dispute services we cover
Possession proceedings
If you need to evict a tenant, it is essential to follow the correct process, or you could lose your right to repossession or even face a legal claim from your tenant. We can serve the legal notice on your behalf and ensure that you have complied with all necessary requirements.
Rent arrears
We know how important it is for landlords to avoid rent arrears and keep a strong cashflow. If you have a tenant who is in arrears, we can work to collect the money promptly and, where possible, without the need for legal action. We are often able to resolve matters by sending a formal legal letter advising them of the risk of court if payment is not made.
Deposit protection claims
If you are a tenant who wishes to make a claim for an unprotected deposit, we can collate the necessary evidence on your behalf and contact your landlord to request the return of your deposit, together with compensation for any breach of the rental deposit rules. Should this not be successful, we can apply to the court and represent you at any hearing.
For landlords facing deposit protection claims, we can advise you of the strengths and weaknesses of your case and discuss the options open to you. Where you have the right to retain a deposit, we will provide the tenant with evidence of this.
Rent reviews
Rules regarding rent review for residential properties are tightening, and landlords need to ensure they do not exceed their authority. As from 13 May 2026, a Section 13 Housing Act 1988 notice is required at least two months before a proposed rent increase takes effect.
From this date, rent can only be increased once a year and must be in line with local market rates.
Tenants can challenge unfair rent reviews at the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber), which is a specialist property court. We represent landlords and tenants in rent review cases, and we can advise you of your legal position and work to resolve matters without the need for a hearing.
Lease renewals
As of 1 May 2026, most fixed-term assured shorthold tenancies will become rolling tenancies, meaning lease renewals will no longer exist. Instead, tenancies will continue on a month-by-month basis.
If you are a tenant who is experiencing difficulties with a continuing lease, contact us today and we can advise you of your rights and provide robust representation.
Commonly asked questions on landlord and tenant disputes
How much does a landlord and tenant solicitor cost?
The cost of representation and legal advice for tenants or landlords will depend on the hourly rate of your solicitor. We always ensure that you have a lawyer with the right level of expertise for your case, so that you never pay more than necessary.
If you ask us to represent you, we will ensure that you have a clear quote for the costs at every step of the way. If you would like to discuss our legal fees for tenancy disputes, please feel free to call us.
Who is responsible for repairs in a rented property?
The landlord is responsible for repairs in a rental property, with the exception of minor internal wear and tear.
This means that the landlord should deal with anything relating to the exterior of the property, including the roof, chimney, windows, and walls, the utilities, including pipework, the boiler, and electrical wiring, and fixtures and appliances, such as showers, toilet, and fitted white goods. The landlord is also responsible for maintaining shared areas, including stairwells, halls, landings, and communal gardens.
Tenants are responsible for minor internal issues, such as dirt or scuff marks on walls and flooring. They are also responsible for any damage they cause.
This can be an area of contention when a tenant causes excessive wear and tear or allows a property to fall into poor condition. We can provide advice and representation to landlords who need to recover the costs of restoring a damaged or dilapidated property.
Can a landlord keep my security deposit?
A landlord can keep a deposit to cover rent arrears, property damage, or the cost of deep cleaning, where this is necessary. If a tenant made unauthorised changes, or decoration is needed, the landlord can also retain funds to pay for this. If the tenant leaves without giving the correct notice, then the landlord is entitled to funds for the notice period.
If you need tenant legal advice on dealing with a landlord who has not returned your security deposit, contact us today, and we can advise you of your legal position and rights.
How long does the eviction process take with a solicitor?
If you ask us to deal with a tenant eviction, we will take each step promptly, as soon as the relevant notice periods expire. Realistically, evicting a tenant from a residential property will usually take around six months, as there are several steps that must be followed by law, and notice periods to be included.
Where a possession order is required, it will be necessary to wait for a court date, which will depend on the availability of court time, often a couple of months. If an order for possession is granted but the tenant still does not leave, then a bailiff will be needed, and this can take two more months.
If you deal with the eviction process yourself, it is essential to draft and serve all notices correctly and allow the tenant the right amount of notice before proceeding to the next stage. Any failures can mean that the court will refuse to grant an order for possession, and you could be forced to start the process again.
Can I withhold rent if my landlord won’t do repairs?
No, you should not withhold your rent to cover necessary repairs, as you could face eviction for rent arrears. If your landlord does not carry out repairs, you should put your concerns in writing and keep evidence of what has happened.
You can report your landlord to the local authority in some instances. If you speak to one of our expert tenant disputes solicitors, we can advise you of your legal rights and represent you in forcing your landlord to remedy matters.
Contact our landlord and tenant dispute solicitors in Bexleyheath, Dartford and Orpington
To speak to one of T G Baynes’ landlord and tenant dispute solicitors in Orpington, Dartford or Bexleyheath, or to arrange an initial consultation, please fill in our simple enquiry form or call 020 8301 7777.