How long does adjudication take, what does it cost and what happens next?

Independent adjudication can take up to 28 days after the adjudicator receives the complete case, and the standard tenant dispute fee is £25. Follow the fee, evidence deadline and expected decision date shown in your account.

When does the adjudication period start?

It starts after the negotiation stage has ended and the case has been completed for referral. A missing fee, evidence step or required case information can prevent or delay referral.

What does the dispute fee pay for?

The fee contributes to the independent review of the written case and can be refunded in full or in part based on the outcome. Check your terms for refund eligibility.

What can the adjudicator decide?

The adjudicator can award all, some or none of a proposed charge based on the agreement, applicable rules and the evidence. The adjudicator will produce a detailed report explaining the decision and the amount established for every disputed charge.

What happens after the decision?

1. flatfair notifies the parties and updates the case.
2. Any established tenant balance becomes payable by the deadline shown, normally within 5 days.
3. Pay through the secure route provided.
4. If you believe there is an administrative error, contact flatfair promptly and identify the exact error.

Can flatfair give legal advice or change the decision?

flatfair can explain the process but cannot give independent legal advice. An adjudication decision is not normally reopened because a party dislikes the result but it may be reopened if an error in fact, law or administration is identified. Any rights outside the process depend on the applicable terms and law.