Build-to-rent and the private rented sector disputes

We assist build-to-rent (BTR) and private rented sector (PRS) operators in almost every aspect of their businesses having been trusted advisors to the largest corporate residential landlords for over 20 years.  

Our expertise includes acquisition, mobilisation and operational support. We help you develop robust internal processes, top tier tenancy-related documents and standard tenant communications and we are leaders in the field of enforcement. We support you to keep arrears and anti-social behaviour to a minimum and we deal with problematic lettings efficiently and effectively. Our collective expertise allows us to offer our services as a whole package.

We work with many of the largest names in build-to-rent and we have a reputation for clear, practical and commercial legal advice using our breadth of experience to provide commercial solutions, tailored to your needs.

We offer a comprehensive package of services to professional BTR and PRS landlords and professional managers of such property, including: 

• site acquisition and disposal of investment assets and corporate fundraising
• commercial development and construction, including site assembly
• advising on compliance with the regulatory schemes and statutory obligations, including health and safety, equality and data protection legislation
• planning applications, appeals and licensing and planning regime compliance
• all aspects of mobilisation of a site, including planning and implementing the ownership structure, estate management and property management
• evaluating and advising in respect of prospective third party relationships, such as with insurers, deposit protection schemes, deposit replacement products and furniture suppliers
• advising upon obligations in respect of District Heat Networks and direct billing of customers for utility use
• drafting leases and tenancy agreements, tailored to meet specific needs
• drafting and negotiating employment contracts and employment policies
• reputation management and press release reviews
• enforcement of tenancy terms
• recovery of arrears
• recovery of possession from tenants and trespassers
• access injunctions, such as for annual gas safety checks
• deposit disputes

Our team of BTR specialists, led by Stephen Small, has advised the pioneers of the BTR sector since its inception in the UK. We are a trusted sounding board for the innovative ideas of those we work with. We have unparalleled experience in this sector and enjoy working with our clients to understand their unique offering and help bring it to market. We are particularly proud to do our part in helping our clients continue to transform the housing stock in the UK for the better. Stephen is a member of the UKAA, a specialist association for the UK BTR market.