Group claims for leaseholders

Group claims for leaseholders

Group claims offer a way for leaseholders to come together, stand strong, and pursue justice as one united voice. This collective approach can be the key to achieving fair compensation and holding landlords accountable for widespread failings.

Our expertise in group claims for leaseholders

Anthony Gold Solicitors are proud to be ranked in the top tier for Social Housing: Tenants by the Legal 500 directory, one of only three firms in the UK to achieve this recognition. This reflects our unmatched dedication to advocating for tenants and leaseholders’ rights and our extensive expertise in housing law, particularly in complex and high-stakes group claims.

Types of group claims we handle

At Anthony Gold Solicitors, we handle a wide range of group claims aimed at protecting leaseholders’ rights and securing justice for those impacted by housing-related issues. Our experienced team has successfully managed claims involving common grievances faced by leaseholders, ensuring that their voices are unified, and their cases are strong. Here are some key areas where we provide dedicated legal support:

Disrepair and nuisance claims

Many leaseholders suffer due to landlords failing to maintain their buildings adequately, resulting in poor living conditions such as damp, mould, or structural issues. Group claims in this area allow leaseholders to collectively address widespread disrepair, making their case more impactful and increasing the likelihood of a successful resolution.

Unsafe living conditions and build defects

Cases involving structural dangers, fire safety violations, fire damage or substandard building practices fall under this category. Whether it’s unsafe cladding or neglected maintenance that poses health risks, we have the expertise to represent groups affected by serious safety concerns, ensuring that landlords or responsible parties are held accountable.

Mismanaged building works

Leaseholders are entitled to peaceful occupancy, free from significant disruptions. When this right is breached, especially during extensive renovations or large-scale building works, it can severely impact day-to-day life. Group claims for breaches of quiet enjoyment covenants allow leaseholders to come together to seek justice and proper compensation for the disturbances endured.

Emergency decants and relocations

When a building becomes uninhabitable, whether due to disrepair or safety hazards, leaseholders may face evacuations or emergency decants—forced moves to alternative housing. We support leaseholders in these urgent situations, advocating for fair treatment and ensuring their rights and needs are met during the process.

Heating and hot Water failures

A lack of reliable heating and hot water can severely impact leaseholders’ well-being. Group claims addressing inadequate or faulty heating systems help leaseholders collectively challenge landlords and achieve faster, more comprehensive resolutions.

Defects to new builds

Defects in new-build properties can leave leaseholders facing unsafe living conditions, persistent disrepair, and financial strain from escalating maintenance issues. We hold developers and landlords accountable for structural faults, fire safety risks, and poor workmanship in new builds, ensuring our clients secure the repairs and compensation they deserve.

What sets us apart?

We are committed to supporting leaseholders with clear, practical advice on a wide range of housing issues. Learn more about what sets us apart.

A trusted leader in social housing cases

Our housing team is widely recognised for its work in disrepair and housing conditions. We are known for standing up for social housing tenants and leaseholders, with particular expertise in new-build and shared ownership properties, and fire safety.

We are one of the only three tier-1 law firms across the UK in dealing with matters related to social housing for tenants and leaseholders, according to Legal 500.

Andrew Brookes, who leads the team, has a strong track record in leaseholder disputes and disrepair claims and was instructed on the Grenfell Tower Inquiry. Timothy Waitt is a specialist in cases involving defective new-build shared housing schemes, while Giles Peaker has extensive experience in housing conditions claims and leasehold disputes, representing multiple claimants. Eleanor Solomon is highly regarded for her skill across all areas of social housing litigation and is described as ‘an exceptional lawyer.

Specialised in group and multi-claimant claims

Group claims require a unique set of skills and a strategic approach, and this is where we excel. Our expertise extends to multi-claimant actions, enabling us to effectively manage cases where numerous leaseholders have experienced similar issues, such as significant disrepair or hazardous conditions.

High-profile matters, including participation in notable inquiries, demonstrate our capability to handle intricate and sensitive cases with diligence and compassion.

Comprehensive legal support and advocacy

We take a client-first approach, ensuring that every participant in a group claim feels supported and informed throughout the legal process. From the initial assessment of your case to detailed representation during hearings, we provide clear guidance and unwavering advocacy.

Our solicitors are dedicated to making the process as transparent and accessible as possible, prioritising open communication and practical advice at every stage.

Words from our clients

We have just completed a successful mediation with Anthony Gold’s help, who were working on behalf of 38 leaseholders in a breach of contract/disrepair dispute vs our housing association. The initial contact with Sarah was very reassuring and she secured a fee agreement that meant getting support from a wide group of claimants was feasible.

Housing and Property Disputes Client

Anthony Gold supported a group of my neighbours and me in a claim against our housing association who had caused damage to the estate and then charged us to repair it. AG were so professional and thorough and really seemed to care about getting us a good outcome – which they did. They made what could have been a difficult and stressful process so much easier and achieved a great outcome for us.

Housing and Property Disputes Client

Anthony Gold have just bought a long running case against our housing association to a successful conclusion through mediation. I was grateful that they agreed to take the case and arrange to fund it in a way that allowed a large number of co claimants to join in a group action. Throughout I’ve been reassured by their professionalism and sage advice. Many thanks to Sarah, and following that Eleanor, Will and Maria for the successful outcome.

Housing and Property Disputes Client

Contact us

If you are a leaseholder, part of a group claim our experienced housing and property law solicitors are here to help. Whether you’re challenging service charges, pursuing a freeholder for repairs, or taking collective legal action, we have the expertise to guide you through the process. Contact us today on 020 7940 4060 or email mail@anthonygold.co.uk, and our team will be ready to assist you.

Learn more about our funding options for housing and property disputes.

Speak to our team

Group claims for leaseholders:
Frequently Asked Questions

How can I prove housing disrepair against my landlord?

To prove housing disrepair, it’s important to gather solid evidence. Photos and videos of the damage are key, and in some cases, a professional inspection may be needed to assess the condition of the property. Landlords often arrange their own inspections after being notified, but if the issue is disputed, our team at Anthony Gold Solicitors can guide you on gathering the right evidence and demonstrating the seriousness of the problem.

How long does it take to resolve a housing disrepair claim?

The duration of a housing disrepair claim varies. If a settlement is negotiated, it can be resolved relatively quickly. However, if court proceedings are necessary, the process may take several months or longer. At Anthony Gold Solicitors, we strive to reach a resolution as swiftly as possible while ensuring your rights are fully protected.

How much compensation can you get from a housing disrepair claim?

The compensation you receive from a housing disrepair claim typically depends on the severity of the issue and is often calculated as a percentage of the rent paid during the time you were affected. You may also be able to claim for losses, such as damaged belongings or costs you’ve incurred trying to address the disrepairs yourself. At Anthony Gold Solicitors, we will discuss potential compensation with you from the start, so you have a clear and realistic understanding of what to expect.

How can a landlord resolve a dispute with their tenant over repairs?

Disputes over repairs can be stressful, but they can often be resolved through negotiation. As a landlord, it’s important to respond to tenant concerns promptly and to ensure all repairs are made according to your legal obligations. At Anthony Gold, we assist landlords in reaching agreements with tenants, offering mediation services or negotiating settlements that avoid lengthy disputes or court proceedings.