Property disputes can be resolved face-to-face – but if that fails, you might need to instruct a property solicitor. Find out how we can help.

These problems stem from the legal status of these features. They don't necessarily map onto legally defined boundaries. It might seem obvious that your garden fence is the boundary between your home and your neighbour's, but the law might disagree.

Boundary disputes aren't only stressful, time-consuming, costly and potentially acrimonious – they can also adversely affect the value of your house. Both buyers and lenders will think twice about a property involved in a boundary dispute.

In this situation, your best bet is to try and reach an agreement in person. If that fails, get a solicitor who can assemble the relevant documentation and fight your corner.

2. You buy a house and don't get the amenities you were promised

Let's say you've just bought a house. On moving-in day, you find that the washing machine you were promised isn't there.

If the washing machine was an amenity mentioned in your contract, this is a legal issue.

And if it can't be sorted face-to-face, you should show the contract to your solicitor. They can then communicate with the seller's solicitor to resolve the issue.

As with most of these disputes, it's possible to do it yourself. However, it's a lot more work and could make things worse.

3. Your property is damaged

If you move into a new property and find that a door, window, roof, boiler or anything else is broken, you should show your solicitor the contract. They can then try to resolve the issue on your behalf.

4. You need access to a neighbour's land to carry out a repair

Let's say your property has a broken pipe. To fix it, you need to get onto your neighbour's land – but they're hesitant or outright refuse.

This is a legal issue. The Access to Neighbouring Land Act 1992 states that the court can order access if it's needed for basic preservation works.

This is one of those situations where you don't want to instruct a solicitor unless absolutely necessary – but if you do find yourself in a deadlock, it can be highly useful.

5. Family property disputes

Questions of inheritance and joint ownership can cause family disputes.

Ambiguous wills can lead to disagreements about inheritance. And when two or more family members co-own a property, sparks can fly over the sale of shares.

These disputes can be especially painful – and quickly get complicated when the interests of children are taken into account.

Getting legal advice can be invaluable when family disputes are concerned. You need a steady hand at the tiller when things get choppy.

6. Breach of contract

Finally, breach of contract is a common issue, especially between landlords and tenants.

A landlord might be pursuing late rent. Or a tenant could be concerned that a landlord is failing to follow fire safety regulations.

Often, these issues can be sorted out face-to-face or via the estate agent. But if not, damages can be pursued and you could need a property solicitor on your side.

What to do in the event of a property event

The first thing is to try to sort it out between yourselves. You want to avoid a legal battle as much as you can.

Clear, non-confrontational communication is a must. If that fails, you should seek mediation.

Mediation is actively encouraged by the government and the judicial system as a means of clearing the backlog of cases that the courts are facing.

A mediator is an impartial person whose aim is to help the two warring parties find common ground – and in the process, avoid a court case.

If mediation fails, legal action is your final option.

In this eventuality, it can be worth seeking high-quality legal advice from an experienced property solicitor. Someone who knows all the relevant case law so that you don't have to.

They'll be able to talk you through the possible outcomes and help you to present your case effectively.

What do property cases involve?

If you do end up in court, you'll need to get all your documents together and file a claim form. During the trial, your lawyer will state your case and then your disputant's lawyer will state theirs.

Evidence is produced and witnesses can be called. The judge weighs up the evidence of both parties and delivers a verdict.

Dispute resolution can be stressful. An experienced property lawyer can help to take the sting out of the process and get you the outcome you deserve.

Are you involved in a property dispute? At Milners Law, we have an experienced team of knowledgeable straight-talking property solicitors. For a free initial consultation, simply get in touch.