Information for landlords and agents
Midvale Housing Advocacy Service is here to ensure fair and lawful housing for tenants in Torbay. This section is designed to help Landlords and Agents understand our role, aims, and authority, and discover how our services can benefit you as a landlord or agent through mediation and effective dispute resolution.
Our role, aims, and authority explained
Midvale Housing Advocacy Service provides specialist litigation support and strategic advocacy for tenants. This page outlines our legal standing and the procedural protocols we expect all parties to follow.
We work to uphold housing law and ensure tenants' rights are respected, which ultimately contributes to a more stable and compliant housing sector for everyone in Torbay.
Legal standing and representation
Under the Legal Services Act 2007, advocacy and litigation support are classified as non-reserved legal activities. Tenants have a well-established right to appoint a representative of their choosing to assist with communication, evidence gathering, and dispute resolution.
Our Lead Advocate functions as a McKenzie Friend within the court system. This role is a standard industry practice designed to ensure "Equality of Arms," providing tenants with the expertise necessary to navigate complex housing disputes fairly.
How we help landlords and agents
Working with Midvale Housing Advocacy Service can streamline dispute resolution, saving you time and resources. Our expertise in mediation and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) helps to facilitate amicable settlements between tenants and landlords, often preventing the need for lengthy and costly court proceedings. By engaging with us, you demonstrate a commitment to fair practice and legal compliance, enhancing your reputation and fostering positive tenant relationships.
Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) & Mediation
Midvale Housing Advocacy Service actively promotes Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) as a primary means of settling housing disputes. In line with the Civil Procedure Rules (CPR), court proceedings should always be a last resort.
Mediation First:
We encourage the use of mediation to reach a structured, legally binding agreement. This approach significantly reduces legal costs and provides a faster resolution than the court system.
Lead-Led Mediation:
Our Lead Advocate manages the ADR process, focusing on technical statutory compliance and practical remedies.
Expert Neutrality:
By involving non-solicitor specialists, parties can focus on technical statutory compliance and practical remedies.
The "Cost" of Refusal:
Under current court guidelines, a party that unreasonably refuses to engage in mediation or ADR may be subject to financial penalties (costs sanctions) by the judge, even if they eventually win the case.
Our objective is to facilitate "Equality of Arms" through transparent negotiation, ensuring that litigation is avoided whenever a fair, out of court settlement is possible.
