Huge rise in rental dispute hearings at property tribunals
Summary
Ministry of Justice tribunal data shows a sharp increase in property-related hearings, with 15,929 cases heard in the year to June 2026, up 24% year on year. The article links the rise to disputes in the private rented sector and leasehold sector, and suggests further increases as the Renters Rights Act reforms take effect.
Why it matters
Residential property surveyors may see more tribunal-related work, particularly where rent reviews, leasehold disputes or Housing Act matters affect valuations and advice. The trend also signals potential delays and administrative pressure in dispute resolution as the regulatory environment changes.
Key points
- 15,929 property-related tribunal cases were heard in the year to June 2026.
- Quarterly hearings reached 4,613 in Q2 2026, up 56% on the same period a year earlier.
- The cases likely include private rental sector disputes, leasehold enfranchisement, leasehold disputes, Housing Act 2004 cases and park homes.
- Savills expects tribunal referrals to rise further as the Renters Rights Act beds in, especially for rent reviews.
- Concerns are raised about tribunal capacity, landlord delays in charging reviewed market rent, and possible regulatory tweaks.
Organisations:
Ministry of Justice, Savills
Regulations:
Renters Rights Act, Housing Act 2004
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