Taking Your Landlord to Small Claims Court
How to make a claim for up to £10,000. Deposit disputes, disrepair, and other claims.
You can take your landlord to the small claims court for claims up to £10,000. This is designed to be done without a solicitor.
What You Can Claim For
- Unreturned deposit (if not protected, you can also claim compensation)
- Damage to your belongings caused by landlord's negligence
- Compensation for disrepair affecting your living conditions
- Return of unlawful fees
How to Make a Claim
- Write a 'letter before action' to your landlord giving them a chance to settle
- If they don't respond or refuse, start a claim online at moneyclaims.service.gov.uk
- Pay the court fee (£35-£455 depending on claim amount)
- Your landlord has 14 days to respond
- If they dispute, you'll get a hearing date
At the Hearing
Small claims hearings are informal. The judge will ask both sides to explain their case. Bring all your evidence (letters, photos, receipts) organised clearly.
Take time off work if needed - the court can award costs for loss of earnings if you win.
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