Helping you resolve tenancy disputes quickly
Disputes between landlords and tenants can be awkward and unsettling. Let Stacks help you resolve things quickly and efficiently, so things can get back to normal as soon as possible.
Tenancy disputes are unpleasant, and if left to their own devices, can drag on for months unnecessarily. You want to feel secure and comfortable in your own home, so it is important to resolve disputes quickly.
The NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT), formerly the Consumer Trading and Tenancy Tribunal, can make legally binding decisions about disputes between Landlords and tenants. NCAT can make decisions up to $30,000 for Rental Bond issues and up to $15,000 for other tenancy issues.
Stacks Law Firm can help you through the NCAT process so that you can find a swift resolution to your dispute. This may include explaining the steps you need to go through, making sure you request the right orders, preparing you for the hearing, and representing you at the NCAT hearing if you wish.
Should your dispute involve a larger sum than NCAT is authorised to handle, we will advise you on the best course of action.
Common reasons for tenancy disputes:
- The rental bond
- Increased rent
- Unpaid rent
- Repairs and maintenance of the property
- Compensation
- Termination of the lease
- Refusal to leave the premises
What is the process involved in resolving a tenancy dispute?
- You’ll need to complete an NCAT application form stating the names of the parties involved and the reason you are seeking orders against the other person. (Note that time limits apply.) You’ll also need to pay the application fee.
- Then your matter is listed for Conciliation and Hearing. Both you and the other party involved will receive a ‘Notice of Conciliation and Hearing’ from NCAT (usually within 14 days) with the date and time for the hearing.
- Before the hearing you will be asked to resolve your dispute through Conciliation. This is where you try to negotiate an agreement with the other person, often with a Conciliator present to guide the process. If you are able to settle things yourselves, you will then record your agreement terms and a Tribunal member will make this a legally binding ‘Consent order’. You won’t need to go to a hearing.
- Failing this, you will need to attend the Hearing, where you will present a statement and evidence to prove your version of what happened. A Tribunal member will listen to each side and then make a legally binding order.
Need help resolving a tenancy dispute? Call us today
