The definitive guide to the right course of action in the event of disagreements with your landlord

When you become a tenant, you assume a series of rights and obligations that – just like your landlord – you must comply with according to the law. However, there is always the possibility that differences may arise between the two parties.

Are you concerned that your rights are being overlooked? If so, you’re in the right place. Below, you will find the definitive guide that we have prepared from KM2 Real Estate Services to act correctly in case of disagreements with your landlord.

This is how you should act if disagreements arise with your landlord

Take note of the most effective steps to solve disagreements with your landlord, as well as the alternatives to evaluate before taking legal action.

1. Dialogue to solve the conflict

When you face a setback, the first thing you should do is communicate with the property owner to explain the reason for your dissatisfaction and seek a peaceful solution.

A word of advice: be clear and precise when stating the problem and remain calm throughout the conversation. Keep in mind that your attitude may affect the landlord’s response.

2. Suggest mediation between the parties

As we discussed in our previous article “Know which repairs are the tenant’s responsibility and which are the landlord’s in a rental property”, the landlord is responsible for carrying out essential repairs to ensure that the space is fully habitable.

Such as?

1. Install a new boiler.
2. Updating the air conditioning systems.
3. Maintain the electrical system in optimal condition.
4. To guarantee the correct functioning of the plumbing.
5. Repair damage to floors, ceilings and walls, including cracks and detachments.
6. To carry out the necessary works for the maintenance and conservation of the property.

If you are unable to reach an agreement on these repairs or the return of the deposit, before resorting to legal measures, it is advisable to try to reach an amicable agreement.

Alvaro Crespo, from Alquiler Seguro – the first private company specialized in landlord protection – suggests that:

“When positions are far apart, it is advisable to involve a third party to mediate between both parties and facilitate a consensual solution, since, even if you are convinced you are right, a court could rule against you.”

In case of disagreement, “it is advisable to have a third party act as a mediator between both parties,” he adds.

3. Take legal action through the courts

If the two previous measures do not work, before filing a complaint, it is advisable to send a burofax to the landlord to explain the cause of your dissatisfaction.

This will serve as a formal record of the attempt to resolve the dispute. If you do not receive a response, the next step will be to initiate legal proceedings.

We are your trusted real estate agency in Barcelona and Madrid

Do you want to rent an apartment in Barcelona or Madrid? Would you like to have the security of being accompanied in case of disagreements with your landlord? In KM2 Real Estate Services we want to help you.

Thanks to our more than 41 years of experience we guarantee legal support in the formalization of negotiations and closing to ensure the legality of each of the rental process, among others.

Visit our website now to see the available homes or contact our sales advisors so they can guide you through the whole process. We are waiting for you in:

• C/ de Balmes, 150, 2º1ª, Barcelona.
• C. Serrano, 51, 4ª Pl. Derecha, Madrid.