Real Estate Dispute Resolution

We have a strong track record advising on complex, high value disputes. We work closely with the major sets of property counsel as well as leading property consultancies and experts to offer clients a full range of dispute resolution services, whether through court proceedings, arbitration, mediation or other alternative mechanisms.

Specialist Expertise

Breaches of Lease Covenants

We advise both landlords and occupiers on the full range of remedies available where breaches of covenant have occurred both during and at the end of the term, including dilapidations and repairs, service charge and rent disputes.

Lease advisory services

We regularly advise on the drafting and service of break notices, including compliance with conditions precedent; rent review, including the conduct of arbitrations and expert determinations as well as court proceedings to establish the correct interpretation of lease provisions; the unreasonable withholding of consent to assign or to sub-let; and the implementation of statutory lease renewals under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954 on behalf of both commercial landlords and tenants.

Insolvency

Current economic pressures have placed considerable strain on both landlords and tenants, very often resulting in recourse to formal insolvency procedures. We have considerable experience in advising landlords, occupiers and office holders, including LPA Receivers, on all aspects of property insolvency including the implications of administration and the effect of the statutory moratorium on enforcement procedures; on liquidation and lease disclaimer; on the CVA process and in relation to individual bankruptcy issues.

Rights to light

This is a key issue in property development, we advise on all aspects of the right to light being an area in which our team has considerable experience. We advise clients on the service of Light Obstruction Notices and the appropriate remedies for infringement.

Party Wall Act

Party Walls have historically been the cause of many neighbour disputes. We advise on all aspects of the Party Wall etc Act 1996 including remedies for breach of Party Wall agreements, claims for compensation, appeals to the County Court and disputes over costs.

Private Nuisance Claims

We advise clients in relation to private nuisance claims whether in consequence of business disruption or infringement of property rights. We work with our clients to find cost effective and timely remedies tailored to each particular situation.

Squatter actions

It is important to act swiftly in respect of unlawful occupation, in an effort to minimize damage that can be caused to property. In cases when the self-help remedy is appropriate, we liaise with certificated bailiffs. We also have experience of dealing with environmental and other protestors.

Disputes arising on the sale and purchase of commercial property

Often, where the acquisition or disposal of a property is concerned, disputes may arise. We have considerable experience of assisting clients in claims for the return of deposits; bringing successful actions or defending against misrepresentation claims and advising on a range of remedies for failure to complete including specific performance and damages in lieu.