Property Litigation and Disputes

Disputes over boundaries and rights over land can become highly contentious, particularly where property value, development potential or long-standing use is involved. We advise on disagreements relating to boundary lines, rights of way, rights of light, drainage rights and other easements, as well as disputes concerning restrictive covenants.

These matters often turn on historical documents, plans and patterns of use. We work with surveyors and other experts where required to establish the legal position and advise on practical next steps. Our focus is on protecting your property rights while seeking proportionate and commercially sensible solutions.

Landlord and tenant disputes can arise at any stage of a lease. We act for both landlords and tenants in residential and commercial matters, advising on possession proceedings, forfeiture, rent arrears and breaches of covenant.

We also advise on dilapidations claims at the end of a lease, including the assessment of repair obligations and negotiation of settlement. Our approach is to provide a clear assessment of risk and exposure at an early stage, helping clients decide whether to pursue formal action or resolve matters through negotiation.

Service charge disputes often arise in leasehold properties and can involve complex accounting and management issues. We advise both landlords and leaseholders on challenges to service charges, reasonableness, consultation requirements and recovery of costs.

Disrepair claims may involve residential tenants raising concerns about the condition of a property or landlords seeking to enforce repairing obligations. We guide clients through their legal duties and rights, helping to resolve issues efficiently and minimise escalation.

Commercial lease renewals can be contentious, particularly where rent levels, terms or redevelopment plans are in dispute. We advise on renewals under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954 and support clients in negotiating terms or, where necessary, pursuing or defending court proceedings.

We also act in breach of lease disputes, whether relating to non-payment of rent, unauthorised alterations, unlawful subletting or other covenant breaches. Our role is to protect your legal position while maintaining a clear view of the commercial realities.

Adverse possession claims can arise where land has been occupied without formal title for a significant period. These disputes require careful analysis of evidence and statutory requirements.

Rectification claims typically concern errors in legal documents such as leases or transfers. We advise on whether a document accurately reflects the parties’ original agreement and, where necessary, pursue or defend applications to correct the record.

Property transactions and developments often involve solicitors, surveyors and other advisers. Where errors occur, they can have serious financial consequences.

We advise clients who believe they have suffered loss due to negligent property advice, as well as professionals facing such claims. Our approach is measured and evidence-based, focusing on resolving disputes efficiently while protecting reputation and commercial interests.

When an individual or company becomes insolvent, property interests can be directly affected. We advise landlords, tenants, creditors and insolvency practitioners on how insolvency impacts leases, rent recovery and property rights.

These situations require prompt action and a clear understanding of statutory procedures. We provide practical advice on protecting assets and managing risk during periods of financial distress.

Agricultural tenancies are governed by specific statutory regimes and can involve long-term land use arrangements. Disputes may arise over succession rights, termination notices, rent reviews or breach of covenant.

We advise landowners and agricultural tenants on their rights and obligations, ensuring compliance with statutory requirements while working towards outcomes that protect long-term interests.

Many property disputes arise from statutory rights and obligations linked to leasehold ownership. We provide specialist advice on:

• Statutory lease extensions
• Collective and individual freehold acquisitions
• Right to Manage claims
• Right of First Refusal disputes
• Applications for the appointment of a manager

These matters involve detailed procedural steps and strict timelines. We guide clients through each stage while advising on the commercial implications of particular courses of action.

The Building Safety Act has transformed the regulatory landscape for leaseholders, landlords, developers and managing agents. Disputes under the legislation can involve complex technical and factual questions. Our team helps clients understand their responsibilities and liabilities, assess risk and respond to claims with a clear strategy.