Disputes
Landlord-tenant mediation: how it works, what it costs, and why courts now expect you to try it first
With County Court waiting times sitting at over 40 weeks for small claims as of mid-2025, mediation is no longer just a nice option. Courts can adjourn cases and make adverse cost orders against parties who refuse it without good reason.
RentRecords · 7 April 2026 · 6 min read
What mediation actually is
Mediation is a structured, voluntary process where a neutral third party helps a landlord and tenant reach an agreement without court. The mediator does not impose a decision — they facilitate communication and help both parties find a resolution they can live with.
The Property Redress Scheme tenancy mediation service runs entirely by phone and email. A typical case involves around one to two hours of calls spread over ten to fifteen working days.
What disputes it covers
- ✓Rent arrears and repayment plans
- ✓Property condition and repair disputes
- ✓Nuisance and anti-social behaviour
- ✓Agreed vacation of the property
- ✓End-of-tenancy deposit disputes
Why courts expect you to try it
The NRLA pre-action plan for arrears states landlords should not issue a notice without fully exploring alternatives including mediation. Courts can adjourn cases and make adverse cost orders against a party who has unreasonably refused.
Court route
Court fees, solicitor time, potential bailiff costs and months of escalating arrears. Proceedings can easily exceed £2,000 and take 12 months or more.
Mediation route
The first stage of the PRS service (contacting the tenant) is free. Full mediation including a drafted settlement agreement is typically under £540 including VAT.
How to start
Call the Property Redress Scheme on
0203 907 1857, or contact the
NRLA mediation service. Either party can initiate.