Resolving disputes in private tenancies

At times, it can be difficult to sort out problems with private tenancies. Using the law to solve a problem can be a long and expensive process. Sometimes, it may be more appropriate to look at another way of solving problems, such as mediation. 

What is mediation?

Mediation is a process where an independent and neutral person helps people in dispute to work together find an agreement that works for both. The Housing Rights Mediation Service aims to assist tenants and landlords to come to a shared understanding of their differences so that they can resolve issues.

Who provides mediation?

There are lots of organisations who can provide mediation services. But, Housing Rights can also provide an independent adviser to help private tenants and registered landlords resolve problems. Housing Rights will not charge for this service. The cost of the mediator is covered by Landlord Registration fees charged by the Department for Communities. 

Who can use the Housing Rights mediation service?

This service is open to private tenants and private landlords in Northern Ireland. However, you will only be able to use this service if

• the dispute is between a tenant and their landlord or agent
• the landlord for the tenancy is properly registered
• the dispute is not about deposits, (this is because there is already a scheme in place to resolve disputes about deposits).