Housing law has a wide remit and exists for the protection of both landlords and tenants, covering a broad range of topics. Housing lawyers will be able to assess your circumstances and offer advice as to the best way to proceed with your housing dispute.

Areas of housing law

• Breach of tenancy
• Disrepair
• Possession
• Section 21 notices
• Tenancy deposit disputes
• Social housing issues
• Illegal or unlawful eviction

Simply.Law member housing lawyers

Simply.Law is a web-based platform designed to link high end housing lawyers with those who require legal services. Each of the solicitors on this page is highly experienced and skilled in housing law. You can select a lawyer from the list yourself, or submit your details to Simply.Law and we will use the Match function to identify the best lawyer for your specific needs.

Housing Act 2004

This piece of legislation introduced some changes to the existing housing law. It provided for a new system for enforcing house standards and assessing housing conditions. Poor conditions include:

• Vermin infestations
• Damp, mould growth and condensation
• Drains which have become blocked
• Faulty electrics
• Damaged asbestos

The Act gives local authorities additional powers for tackling substandard housing as well an obligation to licence houses in multiple occupation (HMO). A multiple occupation house is defined as one with at least three tenants and where the kitchen, toilet or bathroom facilities are shared with other tenants. The new definition of HMO in the Housing Act 2004 means that shared houses, such as student houses, must now be licensed. Other examples include:

• Hostels
• Lodgings
• Halls of Residence (operated privately)
• Bedsits

Your Simply.Law member lawyer will be able to advise whether your property is considered as a HMO.

Regulated tenancies

A regulated tenancy is one which is both long-term and with a private landlord. The Housing Act 2004 sets out specific rules which apply if changes are needed to a regulated tenancy. Housing law solicitors from Simply.Law will be able to help you based on an assessment of your specific situation.

The Act also affects letting agents. Failure to comply with HMO licensing or deposit legislation means that regaining possession of a property could be a problem.

Contact Simply.Law today for advice and assistance on your housing law issues.