At AQ Archers, our experienced solicitors handle disputes between Landlord and Tenants with professionalism and efficiency. Since 2011, we have been assisting clients both Landlord and Tenants with possession claims ensuring that each case is managed with care and expertise to achieve the best outcome. Our team has extensive knowledge of the legal processes involved and will assist you from initial consultation to the resolution of your claim.
We provide clear and transparent information about our legal fees and services for landlords and tenants involved in tenancy-related disputes. Whether you are a landlord seeking possession or a tenant facing eviction, we are here to guide you through the process with professionalism and expertise.
Understanding Our Legal Fees
Our legal fees for these matters include Value Added Tax (VAT) at the prevailing rate (currently 20%). In addition to our legal fees, you will need to cover fixed disbursements for third-party services, such as:
- Expert reports
- Bailiff charges for enforcement
- Service of documents
- Barristers’ fees
What Our Services Include
Our legal fees cover the following key stages of your matter:
- Consultation
A detailed discussion of your case, providing tailored legal advice and guidance. - Review
A comprehensive review of your documents, including tenancy agreements, service of notices (Section 8 or Section 21 of the Housing Act 1988), and compliance with relevant regulations such as the Deregulation Act. We ensure that all documentation aligns with current legislation to avoid dismissal or rejection by the court. Tenants are similarly advised on the validity and enforceability of notices from their perspective. - Pre-action Conduct
Initial communication with the landlord or tenant to attempt resolution without court proceedings. This helps minimize legal costs and ensures compliance with the Civil Procedure Rules governing civil litigation. If resolution is not possible, we provide clear advice on issuing or defending the matter. - Case Management
Managing your claim or defence, including communication with the court, opposing parties, or their legal representatives. We ensure compliance with deadlines and provide timely updates throughout the process until the case is resolved.
First Consultation
We offer fixed fees for an initial consultation to discuss your matter and provide advice on the legal process, procedure, and merits of your case.
- Up to One Hour: £150 plus £30 VAT
If the consultation exceeds one hour, our standard hourly rates will apply unless otherwise agreed. This consultation helps you explore your legal options and decide on next steps.
Hourly Rates
- Mr. M. Asghar Khan (Solicitor): £312.00 plus £62.40 VAT
- Mr. Raja Khurram (Solicitor): £312.00 plus £62.40 VAT
- Other Caseworkers: £143.00–£204.00 plus VAT (£28.60–£40.80), depending on seniority and experience
For more details, see the Solicitors’ Guideline Hourly Rates – GOV.UK.
Key Stages & Timescales
The timeframe for resolving your matter depends on factors such as notice periods, other parties response, compliance with eviction procedures, complexity, and the availability of evidence. We provide an estimated timeline at the outset and ensure procedural compliance before commencing eviction proceedings under Section 8 or Section 21 of the Housing Act 1988. Possession claim can take 6 to 12 months from initial instructions to final receiving the possession. Some complex matter can take even longer while being defended.
Section 8 and Section 21 Processes for Landlords
Section 8
This process is typically used when the tenant has rent arrears of more than two months at the time of service and at the date of the possession hearing.
- Advantages: Allows landlords to claim rent arrears and possession simultaneously.
- Disadvantages: Tenants may raise defence, such as disputes over the arrears.
Court Fee: £355 (if issued online via PCOL). For updated information, visit the Civil Court Fees – GOV.UK.
Section 21
This process is often faster than Section 8, as it does not require a court hearing if the paperwork is in order.
- Advantages: Accelerated claims can be processed more quickly.
- Disadvantages: Separate claims must be made for rent arrears once the possession claim are successful.
Court Fee: £391 (County Court) or £528 (High Court). For updated information, visit the Civil Court Fees – GOV.UK.
Legal Fees for Landlord & Tenant Matters
County Court Claims (Section 8 & Section 21)
- Initial Fixed Fee: £1,750 plus £350 VAT
Includes document review, preparation, review or service of notices, as well as correspondence with the opposing party. - Hearing Fee: £1,000–£1,250 plus £200–£250 VAT
Covers barrister fees for a one-off court hearing.
High Court Matters
All High Court matters are charged at the hourly rates outlined above.
Disbursements and Additional Costs
Disbursements are not included in our legal fees and may include the following:
- Court fees
- Warrant of Possession requests
- Bailiff fees for enforcement or service
- High Court enforcement fees
- Other ancillary fees
Additional Services
If your matter is not listed above, we may still be able to assist with similar landlord and tenant issues. Please contact us to discuss your specific needs. Fixed fees may apply in some matter, or in more complex, high-value cases, our hourly rates will be charged.
Why Choose AQ Archers?
We have extensive experience in landlord and tenant matters, from eviction and possession claims to advising on tenancy agreements and dispute resolution. Our goal is to provide practical, efficient, and cost-effective solutions that meet your needs.
Contact Us
Call 020 7791 3223 or email info@aqarchers.co.uk to arrange a consultation and receive a tailored fee estimate.
Disclaimer
This information is for general guidance and does not constitute legal advice. For tailored advice, please contact our office.