The government-backed Residential Property Tribunal Service (RPTS) runs tribunals that are able to resolve a range of housing related disputes.
These tribunals are quicker and cheaper than the County Court system and are available locally to landlords, leaseholders and tenants alike. Applications cost between £50 and £500 depending on the nature of the dispute. Certain disputes can be resolved free of charge.
The RPTS is one of 70 tribunals in England and Wales. It is able to settle a wide range of disputes, including disputes over rents and some assured tenancies, as well as issues regarding leasehold enfranchisement and service charges.
The RPTS is strictly impartial and every case it handles is decided on its merits.
Hearings take place locally or at one of RPTS’s five regional offices. If applicants have mobility problems, panel hearings can even be held in their own homes. Panels are typically made up of a valuer, a lawyer and a lay person. Seventy percent of disputes are heard within 20 weeks or, in urgent cases, even sooner. Panel members usually undertake property inspections.
The service is both efficient and cost-effective. You don’t have to hire a lawyer or valuer to represent you as the hearings are semi-formal and user-friendly, although you may appoint a lawyer at your own expense if you wish.
The RPTS’s powers were extended as a result of the Commonhold & Leasehold Reform Act 2002. Leasehold Valuation Tribunals, which form part of the Residential Property Tribunal Service, now have the
ability to settle disputes on service charges, the right to manage, admin charges and variation of leases.
RPTS National Helpline 0845 600 3178
Regional office 020 7446 7700