Free landlords advice How to handle tenant disputes

What if something goes wrong, how do I resolve tenant disputes?

From time to time landlords and tenants will fall out over property matters. However the key to a quick and successful resolution depends on how swiftly the landlord acknowledges and reacts to a dispute; striving for cooperation rather than conflict.

1. Find out the facts. Try and figure out who is responsible and determine whether this is a one-time problem or a constant occurrence.

2. To Stay calm and write it out. Get clear about what irks you and what you want done to resolve it.

3. To discuss it by creating a cooperative atmosphere. Rather than attacking causing animosity with your tenant, ask for assistance in finding a solution.

4. Meet in person with your tenant and try to find common ground and focus on what you both agree on and search for an answer that satisfies both parties' needs.

5. If all else fails appoint a mediator (usually an expert in the field). The government backed tenancy deposit scheme offers a free dispute resolution service for landlords and tenants with regards to return of deposits, but you must comply with their requirements and have a schedule of condition as well as having subscribed to one of the approved schemes.