Typical matters
Common Scenarios
Seven situations that account for most of the instructions we receive. They are not case studies and they are not guarantees — they are the patterns we recognise, and the work each one usually needs.
Scenarios
What people bring to us
Every matter is decided on its own documents. What follows describes the shape of the work, not the outcome of any particular instruction.
A supplier delivered equipment that does not match the specification
You ordered to a written specification, paid a 40% deposit and received something that does not perform as described. We review the purchase documentation, identify whether the description formed part of the contract, and draft the written demand setting out the breach, the remedy sought and a reasonable deadline for response.
A commercial lease is coming up for renewal and the rent review looks wrong
We read the review clause against the rent actually being quoted, set out the basis on which the figure has been calculated and prepare the correspondence needed to challenge it before the review date passes.
A tenant has left with two months’ rent outstanding
We assemble the tenancy agreement, rent statements and correspondence into a schedule of arrears, identify whether the deposit has been applied correctly, and prepare the recovery sequence together with a proposed payment plan.
An employee is being dismissed without a clear written process
We review the contract and the procedure that was actually followed, set out in writing where the paperwork does not match the stated process, and prepare the correspondence for a negotiated resolution.
A neighbour’s extension has caused water to enter the property
We establish a chronology of the dates, photographs and reports, consider the obligations arising from the title documents and planning correspondence, and prepare the first formal letter to the responsible party.
A small business is chasing an unpaid invoice that the customer disputes
We examine the order, delivery note and terms of business to test whether the debt is documented, and then frame the issues in writing so that negotiation or mediation can proceed on agreed facts rather than on assertions.
You have been asked to sign a contract tomorrow and do not understand two clauses
We review the document against the commercial terms you describe, explain what those clauses require, and propose replacement wording you can put forward straight away.
Themes
Three things these matters have in common
A document exists
Almost every matter turns on something written: an agreement, a tenancy, a series of emails or a set of invoices. The first task is always to establish what the paperwork actually says.
A deadline is running
Notices, rent review dates, limitation periods and procedural steps all expire. Working out what the deadline is, and how long is left, frequently changes the plan.
A letter comes first
In most of these matters the first effective step is a clear, courteous letter that states the obligation, the evidence and the outcome sought — and that leaves a record if the matter escalates.
Expectations
What we can and cannot promise
- We can tell you honestly how strong the position looks on the documents available.
- We can put that position in writing, in a form that can be sent or filed.
- We can prepare for negotiation or mediation, and support you while it is under way.
- We cannot promise a particular result, recovery or settlement.
- We cannot represent you in court proceedings or conduct litigation on your behalf.
Coverage
Where these matters arise
- Wembley
- Harrow
- Ealing
- Brent
- Hillingdon
- Hounslow
- Watford
- Slough
- Barnet
- Middlesex
- Greater London
Local context
Where our clients are
Next step
Describe your situation and we will tell you which of these it most resembles.
Send a short description of the matter and the documents you hold. You will receive a written scope and a fixed fee before any chargeable work begins.