We know that some renters find it difficult to work out where to go when problems come up in their home. In some cases, people apply to the wrong tribunal, which can lead to delays and confusion.

Different living arrangements have different options for resolving disputes. To make this easier, renters can now use a simple flowchart to understand their options and where to start.

The flowchart explains whether a dispute should be taken to the Tenancy Tribunal or the Disputes Tribunal.

• The Tenancy Tribunal looks at disputes covered by the Residential Tenancies Act.
• The Disputes Tribunal looks at disputes in living arrangements that are not covered by the Residential Tenancies Act.

Some situations are complex and may be reviewed by both tribunals. The flowchart is designed to help renters identify the best place to make their application first.

Options to resolve disputes in your tenancy or living arrangement — flowchart [PDF, 281 KB]

Disputes process

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