Overview

Every housing dispute is different. Before selecting an appropriate dispute resolution process, ClearPoint undertakes an independent Housing Dispute Resolution Pathway Assessment to identify the most suitable route towards resolution.

Purpose

The assessment considers the legal, factual and practical characteristics of the dispute before recommending the process most likely to assist the parties. Rather than immediately progressing to mediation, arbitration or litigation, it helps identify the process best suited to the issues, objectives and procedural stage.

Who Can Use This Service?

• Housing solicitors and law centres

• Housing associations, local authorities and social landlords

• Private landlords, tenants, housing charities and advice organisations

Suitable Disputes

• Social housing and private rented sector disputes

• Possession proceedings, housing disrepair, Equality Act disputes, rent arrears and tenancy disputes

• Service charge disputes, ongoing litigation and complex multi-issue housing disputes

What the Assessment Considers

• The legal and factual issues, procedural stage and available evidence

• The relationship between the parties, practical barriers to settlement, urgency and proportionality

• The suitability of mediation, ENE or arbitration, and any preliminary steps that may assist resolution

Outcome

Following the assessment, ClearPoint provides a structured recommendation identifying the most appropriate dispute resolution pathway together with any recommended preparatory steps before the chosen process begins.

Process

1. Submit a Referral — Provide a summary of the dispute, supporting documents, procedural information and the outcome you hope to achieve.

2. Suitability Review — ClearPoint reviews the referral to determine suitability and whether further information is required.

3. Independent Assessment — A housing specialist identifies the most appropriate dispute resolution pathway.

4. Recommendation — A structured recommendation, suggested next steps and, where appropriate, referral into the recommended process.