Tenants Defences Delaying Tactics

A tenant will be given the opportunity to explain their side of the case. Sometimes the tenant will be asked to take a sworn oath before speaking in court. Should their defence be in writing sign a statement of truth.

Where the landlord has presented the facts in a structured manner, one would hope the tenant realises the game is up and that the landlord is equipped with their evidence to refute claims.

Sadly, the tenant may know the game is up but may be equipped with the knowledge that they can drag this out and delay eviction for a few more months. We term some 'professional tenants’ who know how to live rent free [we deal with many members who cannot believe the extremes some tenants have gone to, turning up to court in a wheel chair, saying relative have died and more) One cannot prepare for all potential outcomes, but at least you should be aware of the types of objections which are quite common.

Below in the Members's area we cover

I never received the Notice 8 or Section 21
Invalid notice. - Invalid Notice failing to comply with civil procedure rules
Failing to comply with Court Process
Disputing Amount of rent arrears.
Withholding money due to repairs.
Counter Claim - The property in disrepair. Suing for injury, harassment or unlawful eviction.
Landlord suffering no hardship.
Failure to comply with Deposit Laws
Ill health, cannot attend court.
Claim of hardship.
Vexatious argument. Legal Technicality.
Failure to comply with HMO and selective licensing rules