Enforcing a Tribunal Ruling Against Your Landlord in England

If you're a renter in England and you've been through a tribunal—such as the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber)—you may have received a positive decision, like an order for your landlord to carry out repairs or to repay unlawful charges. But what happens if your landlord doesn't comply? This guide explains, in clear language, how to enforce a tribunal ruling and what steps you should take to make sure your rights are upheld under English law.

What is the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber)?

The First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) in England handles disputes between landlords and tenants, including rent increases, repairs, deposit issues, and more. Its decisions are legally binding.

What Should You Do If Your Landlord Ignores a Tribunal Ruling?

If your landlord hasn't complied with a tribunal decision (for example, hasn’t paid money owed or hasn’t carried out ordered repairs), you have the right to seek enforcement through the courts.

• If the ruling was for a money payment (like returning your deposit or overpaid rent), you can ask the county court to enforce it.
• If the ruling requires action (for example, repairs), you may enforce it in the county court as if it were a court order.

The Main Steps to Enforce a Tribunal Ruling

Here’s what to do if your landlord does not comply after a tribunal decision in England:

1. Obtain a Copy of the Tribunal Decision

• Your tribunal decision letter should clearly state what the landlord is required to do and the deadline.
• If you’ve lost your copy, contact the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) to request a duplicate.

2. Wait for the Compliance Deadline

• The landlord is usually given a period to comply (check your decision notice for dates).

3. Apply to the County Court for Enforcement

Enforcement in the county court is necessary if your landlord does not do what the tribunal ordered within the stated time.

• To enforce a money judgment, you’ll need to request a “warrant of control,” which allows bailiffs to collect payment on your behalf.
• For orders requiring action (for example, repairs), you may ask the county court to enforce the action as a court order.

Key Court Forms for Enforcement

• N322A: Application to enforce an award in the County Court
  • Official N322A form
  • When to use: If the tribunal ruling is for money or requires specific action and your landlord hasn’t complied.
  • How it works: Complete and send N322A, attaching a copy of your tribunal decision. The court can then register the award, making it enforceable as if it was a county court judgment (CCJ).
  • Example: If your landlord is ordered to repay £1,000 within 14 days and does not, file Form N322A to have the court enforce it.
• N323: Request for Warrant of Control
  • Official N323 form
  • When to use: After your tribunal award is registered at county court and your landlord still hasn’t paid.
  • How it works: Apply for a warrant so that court bailiffs may collect what’s owed by seizing property or arranging payment from the landlord.
  • Example: Four weeks after a registered order, the landlord still has not paid—submit form N323 to begin enforcement by bailiffs.

4. Pay Any Relevant Fees

• Court enforcement comes with fees, but you may be able to apply for help with fees if you have a low income. See the Get help with court fees page for eligibility.

5. Await Court Action

• The county court will process your forms and notify your landlord of enforcement action.

After enforcement, you may receive payment, or the court may direct further action as needed. Monitor correspondence from the county court for updates and possible court dates.

Relevant Legislation for Renter Protections

Your rights to enforce a tribunal ruling are protected under the Housing Act 1988 and Rent Act 1977, depending on your tenancy type.¹

FAQ: Enforcing Tribunal Rulings in England

1. Can I enforce a property tribunal decision if my landlord ignores it?
   Yes. If your landlord does not comply with the tribunal’s order by the deadline, you can apply to the county court using Form N322A to make the award enforceable.
2. What if my landlord still won’t pay after a county court order?
   You can apply for a warrant of control (Form N323). This allows county court bailiffs to attempt collection from your landlord.
3. Do I have to pay to enforce a tribunal decision?
   There are court fees, but you may be eligible for help with fees. Check your eligibility on the government website.
4. Does this process apply to all tenancies?
   This process applies to most private and social tenancies under English law. Always check your tenancy type and decision notice for specific instructions.
5. Can I get help filling in court forms?
   Court staff, local Citizens Advice, or free legal clinics can help with forms and the process.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• If your landlord does not comply with a tribunal order, you have the right to enforce it through the county court.
• Relevant forms are Form N322A and Form N323; official guidance and help is available for renters.
• Support is available for court fees and navigating the enforcement process.

Act promptly—enforcement ensures your rights and the power of official tribunal decisions are respected.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) contact details
• Citizens Advice – Housing: Free support and advice for renters
• Get Help with Court Fees: Check eligibility and apply online
• HM Courts & Tribunals Service

---

1. Housing Act 1988; Rent Act 1977

Categories

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Rent, Deposits & Increases Tenancy Types & Agreements Moving In & Out Procedures Repairs, Maintenance & Housing Standards Eviction Notices & Repossessions Shared Housing, HMOs & Lodgers Discrimination, Harassment & Accessibility Utilities, Bills & Council Tax Affordable Housing, Social Housing & Benefits Dispute Resolution & Housing Tribunals Health, Safety & Fire Regulations Privacy, Landlord Entry & Surveillance Unusual & Special Tenancy Situations Renters’ Insurance & Liability Homelessness Support & Post-Eviction Help Landlord Duties, Licensing & Penalties Housing Law, Legal Updates & Case Studies Mental Health, Disability & Vulnerable Renters’ Rights Rent Repayment Orders & Compensation