Disputes

Unfortunately, disagreements do arise between tenants and landlords. Here are a few tips to try and avoid this:

• Communicate – make sure you report any disrepair or problems with the property immediately to the landlord.
• Follow up any telephone conversations with an email so that you have a record and confirmation of what has been agreed.
• Keep your side of the bargain – keep to the terms of the tenancy agreement. If you are unsure of something in your contract, ask!
• Do basic maintenance, e.g., change lightbulbs.
• Check your inventory carefully and return the property and its contents in the same condition as when you moved in.
• Take dated photos of the property when you vacate to prove that all is in order.

If you are still having problems or communications have broken down with your landlord or agent, please get in touch with ASH. In conjunction with the Advice and Representation Centre in the Students' Union, we can try and help resolve issues.

Not all households will live in blissful harmony. It’s often difficult adjusting to living with new people and their personal habits. It can be quite stressful for all housemates if there is a dispute between one or more of you. Try to collectively work out the best way forward to deal with the issues that may have arisen; house meetings can be useful to clear the air and discuss matters. If you have tried and tried again, don’t despair—there are ways in which we may be able to assist. Contact ASH, and we will try to help.