Each tribunal is overseen by a panel of expert members, including a chair or tribunal judge and someone with specialist knowledge about the subject of the case. A layperson (member of the public) sometimes acts as a third member of the panel.
Expert witnesses are sometimes allowed to give evidence to help the tribunal in complex or technical cases.
Starting an application
You apply to the tribunal by submitting a form to the regional tribunal centre for your area, and paying a fee. The forms include instructions about how to apply.
Check the types of application and which form to use.
Tribunal staff will check your application and send an acknowledgement. They will send a copy to the other party, which is usually your landlord (freeholder).
If your landlord has applied about an issue that affects you, you’ll be sent a copy of their application. Read this carefully to make sure you understand what the application is about and how it affects you. Get advice if you’re not sure.
Using a solicitor or representative
Although tribunals are more informal and accessible than the courts, they can still be complex. It’s up to you if you want to represent yourself or have someone else speak for you, called a representative. This can be a solicitor or someone else such as a friend or relative.
You might decide to use a solicitor:
- if the case is complex
- due to the amount of money involved in the dispute
- if your landlord is represented by a solicitor
If using a solicitor for the entire process is too expensive, it might be useful to have help at some stages, for instance on the content of your application to the tribunal.
Find out more
- Last updated:
- 3 September 2026
- Next review:
- 2 March 2027
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