Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)
Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) is an umbrella term for ways of settling housing disputes without going to court. In the private rented sector this can include mediation, early neutral evaluation, arbitration and adjudication, for example through tenancy deposit protection schemes or redress/ombudsman services.
Where ADR is available, landlord and tenant are invited to set out their side of the dispute and provide evidence such as the tenancy agreement, inspection reports, photos and communications. An impartial third party then helps the parties reach an agreement, called mediation, or makes a decision. This is called adjudication or arbitration.
ADR is meant to be quicker, cheaper and more accessible than the courts, with less formality and no requirement to use a solicitor. Outcomes from some schemes are binding on the parties or on the scheme itself, for example when ordering payment from a tenancy deposit.
However, ADR does not usually remove core legal rights. Serious issues such as unlawful eviction, disrepair with health risks, or discrimination may still need to be taken to court or property tribunal, even if ADR has been tried first.
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