Selina reduced her stress by informally resolving a dispute with her landlord
Selina had a range of issues with her lease – from a rent increase (applied at a time when it was unacceptable for landlords to raise the rent), to invoices being issued late, and asking for an early release from her lease due to a personal situation. Selina requested informal assistance from us with the dispute.
Over a 2-week period, Selina obtained information and assistance and started email and phone conversations with the real estate agent representing her landlord. With the knowledge and tools at her disposal, Selina was able to take the emotion out of her communication, and together with the real estate agent, they presented an offer to the landlord.
A credit was offered for the months where the rent increase had incorrectly been applied, an early termination of the lease was granted, and a small rent reduction was applied for the remainder of the tenancy.
Key learnings
- Selina learnt about her rights and obligations under the Retail Shop Leases and Other Commercial Leases (COVID-19 Emergency Response) Regulation 2020.
- Selina realised she could speak honestly to her landlord through third-party assistance.
- Selina learnt that with the right support and knowledge, she was able to formally resolve her issues.