A tribunal is a body that resolves certain types of disputes. They’re a more accessible and informal alternative to the court system. Tribunal decisions are legally binding on the parties involved.
The First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) in England and the Leasehold Valuation Tribunal in Wales are government funded and deal with disputes and appeals related to private rented and leasehold properties.
The tribunal process
It’s best to try to resolve an issue informally first. If this has not worked, a solicitor can advise you if the tribunal is the best way to deal with your dispute.
To take your dispute to the tribunal you will need to complete and send the relevant form.
Applying to a tribunal is cheaper than going to court, but you’ll need to pay a fee for most applications. You might be able to get a reduction or exemption if you have low savings and get certain benefits.
If you use a solicitor you’ll also need to pay your own legal costs.
Once you’ve applied, the tribunal will tell you what further information you need to prepare.
The tribunal will either make a decision based on the written evidence (called a paper hearing), or there might be an in-person hearing where both sides can present their case and ask questions. The tribunal will make its decision after the hearing.
Applying to a tribunal might seem daunting. But the process is designed to be used by members of the public without legal training. Depending on the situation, it might be the best way to resolve an issue and enforce your rights as a leaseholder.
How tribunals work
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.
- Last updated:
- 21 September 2026
- Next review:
- 21 September 2028
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