Let’s be honest — when it comes to property, things can get overwhelming fast. Whether you're thinking about buying your first home, renting out a flat, or dealing with a difficult tenancy issue, the legal side of things isn’t always straightforward. That’s where housing solicitors come in — and if you’ve never worked with one before, let me walk you through what they actually do, and when you might need one.
So, what does a housing solicitor actually do?
In simple terms, housing solicitors are legal experts who specialise in property and housing law. They deal with everything from helping you buy or sell a home (you’ll hear the term “conveyancing” a lot) to resolving landlord and tenant disputes. They’re also the people you turn to if you’re dealing with eviction, repossession, or leasehold/freehold issues.
They act as your guide through a sometimes-confusing legal maze, making sure you understand your rights and don’t get caught off guard.
Do I really need a solicitor for buying or selling a house?
If you’re buying or selling property, absolutely — a housing solicitor is essential. They don’t just handle the paperwork (though there’s plenty of that); they also carry out local searches, review contracts, flag any legal risks, and ensure the transaction is watertight.
Without one, you’re at risk of missing something critical — and in property, small mistakes can lead to big problems.
What about if I’m a tenant with issues?
If you're renting and your landlord is being unreasonable — maybe they’re trying to evict you unfairly or refusing to fix major repairs — a housing solicitor can help you challenge that. On the flip side, if you're a landlord and your tenant isn’t following the rules, a solicitor can guide you through the correct legal process for repossession or dispute resolution.
These matters can quickly turn stressful, so having someone on your side who knows the law inside and out makes all the difference.
Leasehold headaches? You’re not alone.
Leaseholds can be a real minefield. Maybe you’ve got questions about ground rent, service charges, or renewing your lease. Or perhaps you’re trying to buy the freehold but keep hitting legal brick walls. A good solicitor can explain what’s going on in plain English, help you understand your rights, and represent you if things escalate to a tribunal.
Social or council housing problems?
You might not know this, but if you're living in social or council housing and you're dealing with overcrowding, serious disrepair, or even the threat of homelessness, a housing solicitor can step in. In many of these cases, Legal Aid might cover the cost — which is worth exploring if money’s tight.
How do you know who to trust?
It’s a fair question. The legal world can feel a bit... opaque. When looking for the right solicitor, it helps to check that they’re regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) and ideally have specific experience in housing law. Also, don't be afraid to ask upfront about fees — a good firm will be open and transparent about what you’ll be paying.
And where can you find someone reliable?
You can start by asking around — friends, colleagues, or even local housing charities often have recommendations. Online directories like the Law Society's "Find a Solicitor" tool can also point you in the right direction.
But if you're here already, let me save you some time.
At Farani Taylor Solicitors, we’ve helped countless clients navigate the complex world of housing law. Whether you’re buying a home, dealing with a dispute, or facing urgent housing issues, our team is here to offer honest, expert advice — without the legal jargon.
We’ve got offices conveniently located in the City, Ilford, and Norbury, so whether you’re based in Central London, East London, or South London, you’re never too far from legal support you can trust.
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