Landlord and tenant law is one of the most procedural areas of practice. The rules are strict, the deadlines unforgiving, and the consequences of even a small error can be significant. A notice served on the wrong day, a missing clause in a tenancy agreement, a misunderstanding over repairing obligations, any of these can undermine an otherwise strong case.

At Fortis Rose, we guide landlords and tenants through this detailed area of law with clarity, calm and a focus on getting the technical steps right. Whether the matter is residential or commercial, straightforward or highly contested, our role is to provide structure from the outset and prevent avoidable mistakes from complicating the situation.

Understanding the Framework Before Taking Action

Every tenancy, residential or commercial, has its own legal and contractual framework. The starting point is always the same: understanding the documentation and the statutory regime that applies. Many problems arise because action is taken too quickly, or based on assumptions about rights or responsibilities that do not reflect the actual agreement.

We begin by analysing the tenancy documents carefully, identifying the applicable statutory regime, and mapping the correct procedural route. Once the framework is clear, clients can make decisions that are both legally sound and commercially sensible.

Tenancy Disputes: Getting to the Heart of the Issue

Disputes between landlords and tenants arise for many reasons, arrears, breaches of covenant, allegations of disrepair, access issues, service charge disagreements or renewal rights. Each type of dispute has its own rules and evidential requirements, and outcomes often hinge on details that may seem insignificant at first glance.

Our work involves establishing the facts, identifying the strengths and weaknesses on both sides, and advising clients on the most effective way to resolve the dispute. We manage the process with a blend of technical knowledge and practical judgment, ensuring that clients do not take premature steps that could compromise their position.

Possession and Eviction: Accuracy is Everything

Possession proceedings are governed by strict procedures. Notices must be correctly drafted, served on time and supported by the right evidence. A defective notice can invalidate the entire process, leading to delay, increased cost and, in some cases, dismissal of the claim altogether.

We advise on Section 21 and Section 8 notices, accelerated possession claims, commercial forfeiture and defending possession proceedings.

Where arrears are involved, we help clients manage both the possession process and the financial elements in parallel.

For landlords, the aim is a lawful, efficient and properly documented process.
For tenants, the focus is on ensuring that the landlord has complied with statutory requirements and that their rights are protected.

Early advice is essential, errors made in the early stages are often the most difficult to correct.

Lease Extensions, Enfranchisement & Property Rights

Lease extensions, enfranchisement and property-related rights require more than an understanding of the legislation, they require precision. Statutory extensions involve strict deadlines, valuation requirements and notices that must be prepared and served accurately.

We advise clients on statutory and voluntary lease extensions, enfranchisement claims, rights of way, rights of access and other property rights linked to tenancies. These matters frequently involve surveyors, valuers and other specialists, and we coordinate these inputs to ensure that the legal process is properly aligned with valuation and technical evidence.

Disrepair, Dilapidations & Repairing Obligations

The law governing disrepair and dilapidations differs significantly between residential and commercial tenancies. Understanding the scope of each party’s obligations is crucial, and often misunderstood.

We help clients assess the condition of the property, understand the impact of contractual terms, and evaluate the legal and financial consequences of alleged breaches.

In commercial matters, dilapidations schedules and negotiations require careful documentation and proportionate strategy.

In residential disputes, clarity on statutory obligations and evidential thresholds is key.

These cases are often evidence-driven. We ensure that the right reports, photographs, schedules and documentary records are prepared and presented clearly.

Rent, Service Charges & Enforcement

Financial disputes between landlords and tenants frequently arise in connection with arrears, service charges or alleged breaches of covenant.

These issues require an understanding of both the contractual provisions and the statutory protections available to each party.

We advise on the recovery or defence of rent arrears, disputed service charges, enforcement routes, negotiated repayment arrangements and settlement agreements.
Where matters involve both possession and financial elements, we help clients manage the processes in tandem to achieve efficient resolution.

Why Clients Work With Fortis Rose

Clients rely on us because landlord and tenant law demands a combination of technical accuracy and practical sense. We approach every case with:

• A focus on documentation first:

Contracts, notices and statutory rules must be understood before any action is taken.

• Early identification of the correct procedural route:

Avoiding avoidable errors saves time, cost and stress.

• Clear, realistic advice:

Clients always know their position, options and risks.

• Proportionate strategy: Whether negotiation or litigation is appropriate, the approach is shaped by the desired outcome.

• Calm, steady guidance: Particularly valuable when matters are urgent, contentious or sensitive.

Landlord and tenant cases are won in the detail, and we ensure that the detail is right.

Early Advice

Landlord and tenant law leaves little room for error. Notices, deadlines and procedural steps matter. The information above is intended as general guidance only.

For a clear view of your position, and to avoid steps that could weaken it, tailored advice should always be obtained before taking action or responding to a notice.

Speak to Us About Your Property Issue

Whether you are a landlord seeking possession, a tenant facing enforcement, or a party dealing with repair obligations or financial disputes, we can help you take the right steps from the outset.

Contact us to discuss your situation.