From the frontline of mediation (tenant troubles, rent arrears and resolution)

In the latest episode of Hamilton Fraser’s property podcast, Eddie and Paul are joined by special guest, Steve Bowen, a Mediator at the Property Redress Scheme with over 40 years’ experience in the property industry, and an experienced landlord himself. With courts closed for six months during the first COVID-19 lockdown, landlords face an uphill battle securing an eviction and reclaiming outstanding rent arrears. As an industry veteran, Steve provides his unique insights into mediation and how it can benefit landlords and tenants by helping them to avoid court proceedings through effective communication, pre-action protocols and rent payment instalment plans.   Eddie, Paul and Steve delve into what mediation really means, why a customer focus could benefit landlords in the long run and how setting reasonable expectations between parties can resolve issues far quicker than you may think (especially in the current climate). Having mediated cases from £500 all the way up to £50,000, Steve explains a typical mediation journey, relationship management and why the pen, or in this case effective communication, is mightier than the sword.