Seek legal advice as early as possible, particularly where the dispute could affect the use, value, occupation or development of a property. Early advice can help clarify your legal position, identify important deadlines and prevent the dispute from escalating unnecessarily.

You should preserve relevant documents, including leases, title documents, plans, correspondence, photographs, notices and professional reports. Avoid making admissions, taking physical action or entering into an agreement before understanding how this could affect your position.

Yes. Many property disputes can be resolved through direct negotiation, mediation or another form of alternative dispute resolution. These approaches can provide greater flexibility and may reduce the cost, time and uncertainty associated with court proceedings.

Mediation involves an independent mediator helping the parties explore whether an agreed solution can be reached. The mediator does not decide the dispute or provide legal advice, but facilitates negotiations between the parties. Read our Guide to Mediation for more information about the process and how to prepare.

The cost will depend on factors including the complexity of the dispute, the amount of evidence involved, the length of the case and whether court proceedings, expert reports or Counsel are required.

Even where a party succeeds at court, they may not recover all of their legal costs from the other side. The court has discretion when making costs orders, and some claims are subject to fixed recoverable costs or rules limiting the legal costs that can be recovered.

Our solicitors will discuss likely costs with you and keep the proportionality of the proposed action under review. Read our Guide to the Costs of Litigation for further guidance.

Yes. The applicable time limit will depend on the type of dispute, the legal basis of the claim and the circumstances in which it arose. Different deadlines may apply to contractual claims, claims relating to land, lease disputes and challenges to notices or decisions.

Some property matters also require action within a much shorter practical timeframe, particularly where possession, development work, access or the condition of a property is involved. Seeking advice early can help protect your position and avoid missing an important deadline.

In appropriate circumstances, it may be possible to apply to the court for urgent relief, including an injunction. This may be relevant where building work is causing immediate damage, access is being obstructed, confidential information is at risk or another party is threatening action that could seriously affect a property or business.

Urgent court applications require careful preparation and strong supporting evidence. The court will consider the seriousness of the situation, whether damages would provide an adequate remedy and the effect of an order on both parties.