Falcon Chambers offers broad expertise at junior and senior level across the full range of property litigation matters, with members involved in a number of top cases during 2020, including high-profile and legally significant proceedings relating to rights to light, nuisance, rent obligations during Covid-19, and and telecoms issues. Guy Fetherstonhaugh QC and Elizabeth Fitzgerald represented the management of the Tate Modern in the high-profile Fearn v Trustees of the Tate Gallery case, relating to the gallery’s viewing platform, with the case resulting in a ruling that nuisance did not extend to overlooking. Stephen Jourdan QC and Emily Windsor were involved in Alexander Devine Children’s Cancer Trust v Housing Solutions, the first case concerning the public interest requirement on applications to discharge restrictive covenants to reach the Supreme Court. Gary Cowen QC, Fetherstonhaugh QC and Fitzgerald have also been involved in several precedent-setting cases relating to retail tenants and their obligations to pay rent during the Covid-19 pandemic. The set’s senior expertise was bolstered by Oliver Radley-Gardner QC and Catherine Taskis QC taking silk during 2021; Taskis has a notable specialism in agricultural property disputes, and Radley-Gardner has expertise in telecoms, mortgage, and adverse possession cases.
Property litigation in
London BarFalcon Chambers
Testimonials
Set
‘Outstanding chambers in this field. Strength in depth means they are our go to chambers.‘
‘Falcon is our go to set. They are unrivalled for breadth of expertise. We find counsel to be accessible and responsive – very user friendly. I have noted excellent output on social media (LinkedIn) and very good training programmes.‘
‘Enormous quality and strength in depth for real property disputes. Falcon Chambers has been the go to chambers for many years. My team and I have established a very close relationship with Falcon Chambers working with very many barristers. ‘
‘Falcon is our go to set. Members have a high level of expertise at all levels which which aid us in being able to recommend the set to clients.‘
Clerking
‘John Stannard leads the team and is always our first contact point. He has a strong sense of what is required by our clients and our team.‘
‘The clerking service is excellent and the senior clerk, John Stannard, is effective and brilliant at organising the barristers, and the courts.‘
‘The clerks at Falcon have been very helpful , especially at assisting with juggling various dates of availability of counsel to ensure that my clients are able to instruct their preferred counsel.‘
‘Excellent, a joy to work with. John Stannard in particular is excellent – incredibly helpful and will find a barrister however urgently needed!‘
Landmark Chambers
Landmark Chambers continues to expand its profile, praised as 'at the top of their game' as a property-focused set, with the profile of the practice reflected by the appointment of David Holland QC as head of chambers. The set handles residential property, landlord-tenant, and real property work, and can also offer specialist expertise in property insolvency, telecoms, and Land Registration. Holland QC, leading highly-rated senior junior Toby Watkin QC appeared before the Supreme Court in TW Logistics v Essex CC, a case relating whether a section of a working port could be ruled part of a Town or Village Green. Justin Bates is noted for his combined public law and property practice, representing public and private sector clients in landlord-tenant proceedings. Tom Weekes QC is representing in the high-profile Fearn v Board of Trustees of the Tate Gallery case concerning the art gallery's tenth floor viewing gallery, which is listed for the Supreme Court in December 2021. Myriam Stacey QC took silk in 2021, and covers aspects of real estate litigation, with a particular focus on commercial landlord and tenant and real estate disputes in connection with proposed and ongoing commercial developments. The set continues to expand, with Evie Barden arriving during 2020 and bolstering the chambers' property insolvency practice in particular.
Testimonials
Set
‘I regard Landmark Chambers as my first port of call from property disputes due to the quality of the counsel available and their breadth of knowledge.‘
‘Landmark have really stepped up over the last few years and are at the top of their game.‘
‘Landmark is a heavyweight player in the property world. Their planning environment and property reach is wide and their expertise covers all areas.‘
‘Fantastic set with a real breadth and depth of expertise.‘
Clerking
‘Mark Ball is fantastic and I can always rely on him to provide a prompt response whether it is by telephone or email.‘
‘Always responsive and accommodating. Mark Ball and Richard Bolton are the main contacts and both come highly recommended.‘
‘The clerks are always available to assist with urgent requests and have adapted well to receiving large bundles of documents electronically and ensuring papers are passed onto counsel efficiently.‘
‘Clerking service is excellent. Mark Ball leads the team from the from the front and is very easy to work with.‘
Gatehouse Chambers
Gatehouse Chambers has a strong and developing property offering, with a number of specialist practitioners offering expertise across commercial and residential landlord-tenant issues, nuisance claims, rates, lease renewals, and dilapidations claims. The addition of Faisel Sadiq in early 2021 from now-defunct Ely Place Chambers was a particular boost to the set's offering in rates disputes. The set receives instructions from leading property firms in the City and nationally. John de Waal QC and Katrina Mather are involved in the landmark British Medical Association v NHS Property Services case concerning premises fees charged to GP practices. Brie Stevens-Hoare QC and Emily Betts are involved in Triplark v Reiner & Wismayer , a case relating to the ability of a lessee who has completed the sale of a lease to a third party and been paid in full to seek relief from forfeiture. Practice co-head Jamal Demachkie played a key role in Ei Group PLC v Clarke, one of the only reported decisions on the Pub Code, which governs relationships between operators of pubs and the freehold owners of them who also supply them. Co-head Andy Creer represented the landlord in Boots (UK) Ltd v Frenchgate, an unusual example of a lease renewal going to trial, one of several cases relating to retail leases during 2020.
Testimonials
Set
‘Gatehouse has strength in depth at all levels of seniority. There is a consistent and high level of advice provided throughout the set.‘
‘Gatehouse have a huge strength in depth and a wonderfully led by a fantastic diverse and inclusive leadership team.‘
‘Fantastic – highly experienced counsel, lots of options at different levels, flexibility, modern approach etc.‘
‘Gatehouse offer a complete, highly efficient and friendly service all round in the field of property litigation. Also offer very good webinars.‘
Clerking
‘James Duncan-Hartill is one of the best around, always on top of everything. Patrick Sarson also good.‘
‘Excellent. Patrick Sarson is brilliant and very helpful.‘
‘Very good service here. Claire Gallacher in particular is very efficient and friendly.‘
‘All clerks are very good. They are responsive. Listen carefully to your requirements. Work flexibly and in an modern way. James Duncan Hartill is particularly good. They are good on fees, work to budgets where sensible and stick to them.‘
Tanfield Chambers
Tanfield Chambers is a focused property set with strong expertise across residential landlord and tenant work, real property, and commercial real estate disputes, alongside specialist areas such as party walls. Head of chambers Philip Rainey QC and Ellodie Gibbons represented the landlord in Sequent Nominees Ltd (Formerly Rotrust Nominees Ltd) v Hautford Ltd before the Supreme Court, securing a ruling preventing a tenant from obtaining planning permission without the landlord's permission. Another major case for Rainey QC was the successful in the Court of Appeal in enfranchisement case LM Homes v Queen Court Freehold Company Ltd, which also featured Carl Fain on the counsel team for the tenants. Kerry Bretherton QC is representing the hotel in Poste Hotels v Cousins, a High Court case relating to rights of way, arguing that the hotel owner had acquired by prescription a right of way over the cul-de-sac giving access to the laundry, which had been repeatedly blocked by the opponent's car, which both parties have sought permission to appeal to the Court of Appeal. Christopher Heather QC continues to represent the restaurant chain in the Performance Retail (General Partner) Ltd v Wagamama Ltd case relating to interpretations of a lease agreement.
Testimonials
Set
‘They have real strength in residential landlord and tenant including leaseholds. The volume and quality of their commercial property and real property work has improved.‘
‘This set is incredible and I only have good things to say about them, we always receive a very high level of service from both barristers and clerks. I would always come to Tanfield for residential matters and am keen to use them more on the commercial real estate disputes I am dealing with.‘
‘Tanfield Chambers are very easy to work with and our firm has an excellent working relationship with Counsel and clerks alike. The advice and advocacy from the chambers is exemplary and they are noted for making Counsel available to assist with matters at short notice when required.‘
‘Without exception every barrister i have instructed within Tanfield has been first class. They are all extremely easy to work with and nothing is ever too much of a problem.‘
Clerking
‘I work mainly with Alex Southern who is brilliant and always finds the right counsel for the job – he knows his set and their skills very well – he also seems to know which counsel will work best for particular cases.’
‘Richard Powell is a star. Nothing is too much trouble.’
‘The clerks are incredibly helpful, know the barristers well and recommend the right person for the job at the right level and fee. Billy Forecast is always my first choice of clerk.’
‘Excellent. So helpful and accommodating.‘
‘Clerks are all good, I have never had cause to complain. What I like is that in any question of fees or availability they are very responsive and clearly have a modern relationship with their counsel. I have also found them accommodating where needs have been pressing or a client’s situation has meant that out of hours availability has been needed. Their speed of response is excellent.‘
Wilberforce Chambers
Wilberforce Chambers combines notable senior expertise with a strong team of junior barristers, with a strong offering across the full range of property matters, most notably commercial landlord and tenant work, development disputes, mortgages, title disputes, and rural economy issues. Joanne Wicks QC and Emer Murphy appeared in the Duval v 11-13 Randolph Crescent Ltd case before the Supreme Court, a case relating to landlord-tenant permissions for covenant breaches. Martin Hutchings QC and James McCreath were involved in Devine v Housing Solutions Ltd, a legally significant restrictive covenants case concerning whether a developer who had knowingly constructed houses in breach of restrictive covenant could rely on the public interest in those houses being occupied to justify modifying the covenant. Jonathan Seitler QC is heavily involved in telecoms cases, particularly the burgeoning area of litigation relating to the new code, and appeared before the Court of Appeal in Cornerstone PLC v Ashloch, AP Wireless, which will determine what rights telecoms operators have under the new telecoms code during the term of a telecoms lease. Mark Wonnacott QC and Harriet Holmes were involved in The trustees of the Williams-Wynn 1987 Settlement v Natural Resources Body for Wales, a landmark mines and minerals case.
Testimonials
Set
‘Good at ensuring good relationships are maintained. Excellent, quick, responsive and personable. Very easy to work with.‘
‘Great set for property litigation and a number of excellent seniors and juniors – so real strength and depth. They have been very visible through the pandemic and great use of social media!‘
‘A very solid set with strength in depth and a good number of go to barristers. They will always provide a great service and a very supportive team.‘
‘Huge strength in depth throughout the field of property litigation. Its possible to find an expert in every aspect of contentious property work.‘
Clerking
‘Mark Rushton is a great clerk, very professional and a pleasure to deal with.‘
‘Very effective and efficient – fees are competitive. Helpful and responsive clerking team.‘
‘Really good, sensible, straight talking, don’t over promise and find a solution to most things.‘
‘The set is complemented by a knowledgeable, friendly and talented clerking team.‘
Maitland Chambers
Maitland Chambers has an 'outstanding' offering across commercial and residential property litigation, handling cases ranging from residential enfranchisement to property investment disputes on behalf of private individuals and multinational companies. The set is particularly known for its capabilities in high-value cases. John McGhee QC has been involved in two high-profile cases, leading Tim Calland in 89 Holland Park Management Ltd v Hicks, in which he represented the successful appellant in a significant restrictive covenants case, as well as successfully representing the defendant in EMI Group Ltd v Prudential Assurance Co Ltd alongside Maxim Cardew, which was a high-value commercial lease dispute. The set has also seen an increase in telecoms work, with Christopher Pymont QC representing AP Wireless in Cornerstone Telecommunications Infrastructure Limited v Ashloch Limited and AP Wireless II, a case relating to land rights under Part 4 of the Electronic Communications Code and the 1954 Landlord and Tenant Act.
Testimonials
Set
‘I have used a few barristers at Maitland over the 5 or so years I have worked with them and always been impressed. I think they have excellent strength in depth, counsel have always been available when needed (or shortly thereafter). ‘
‘I really enjoy working with Maitland and have done throughout my career. All of the barristers are first rate and easy to deal with, as are the clerks. ‘
‘Excellent set. My first choice. User friendly with a strong stable of counsel at all levels. ‘
‘Maitland is quite simply outstanding. We work with all different levels of call and are never disappointed. ‘
Clerking
‘ The clerks give us a first class service. They are responsive and very user friendly. Special mention for the wonderful Danny Wilkinson. ‘
‘ We get a good service from the clerks, quick to respond, straight forward. Recently dealt with Jason Windle who was easy to deal with. ‘
‘ Great clerks – quick and efficient. ‘
‘ Rob Penson is an outstanding clerk. ‘
Selborne Chambers
Selborne Chambers combines broad real property expertise with a 'truly fantastic' landlord and tenant offering, with members handling complex cases in areas including rights to light, easements, adverse possession, and trespass, alongside estates and development disputes, lease renewals, and breach of covenant cases. Jonathan McNae acted for the successful manager in the Canary Riverside Estate Management Limited & others v Coates & Circus Apartments Limited case, a long-running dispute between owner, landlord, and tenants including the creation of a confidentiality club. Mark Warwick QC maintains a leading practice across real property and landlord and tenant cases, and appeared for the appellant before the Court of Appeal in Dhillon v Barclays Bank plc & the Chief Land Registrar, a Land Registration Act case concerning whether, for the purposes of paragraph 3(3) of Schedule 4 to the Land Registration Act 2002, there were exceptional circumstances which justified the Court not making an order rectifying the land register in the wake of a mortgage fraud. Nicholas Trompeter QC took silk in 2021, and was involved in the Supreme Court test case Hurstwood Properties (A) Ltd v Rossendale Borough Council, concerning schemes designed to avoid the payment of national non-domestic rates on empty properties by leasing them to SPVs, acting for the respondents. Ian Clarke QC acted for the successful defendant in Richards v Harvey, a case concerning a high-value contractual claim relating to the sale of units at a development.
New Square Chambers
New Square Chambers has a strong focus on real property and landlord-tenant litigation, with members also regularly working on public law cases, professional negligence, and trusts claims in the proprety space. George Laurence QC is vastly experienced, having argued a number of precedent-setting cases before the Supreme Court and Court of Appeal, with one standout involvement being his leading role in Hampshire County Council v Secretary of State for the Environment Food and Rural Affairs, in which he represented Hampshire County Council, and secured an order quashing a decision of the Secretary of State ordering deregistration of 0.5km² area of common land under to the Commons Act 2006. Paul Wilmshurst handles boundary and easements, landlord-tenant, and negligence proceedings, and has a strong niche in harassment-related property cases including the high-profile L&Q v Tate County Court case, in which a leading housing association failed to support a young female tenant forced to flee her home following nine months of racist abuse from neighbours. Alexander Learmonth QC took silk in 2021, and is involved in a number of estates disputes. Senior junior Gary Pryce focuses on real property disputes, alongside commercial and residential landlord and tenant work, representing the under lessor in a high-value residential landlord and tenant claim, counterclaim and additional claim concerning a Marble Arch maisonette overlooking Hyde Park. Simon Adamyk has great expertise in rural property cases, and has experience of cases both in England and the British Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies.
Testimonials
Set
‘The team work together smoothly and effectively, with great support available whenever needed from the clerking team. Strength in depth and availability are excellent. ‘
‘New Square Chambers is a well-rounded set with a lot of strength in depth. The junior barristers are extremely competent and hard-working. ‘
‘The set has substantial in-depth expertise in a number of areas, including property litigation. New Square Chambers can field individuals with expertise in any aspect of those areas. Members of Chambers have appeared in this field at all levels of the hierarchy, from public inquiries to County Court to High Court to Court of Appeal to the Supreme Court and Privy Council. They offer a remarkable pool of knowledge and expertise. ‘
‘ Welcoming and helpful to our clients at conferences. They have a commercial sense when it comes to fees, always realistic and approachable keeping in mind client budget and expectations. When time was tight for an urgent injunction, the clerks New Square Chambers joined in the effort to get the case ready for court on time. ‘
Clerking
‘The clerks are a friendly bunch who do their best to accommodate. They will offer a range of counsel, usually tailored to meet the client’s wallet, and are generally quick to get back to you.’
‘Very friendly and super efficient clerks. A professional and well-run set.‘
‘The clerks have outstanding knowledge of practice and procedure and are always available.‘
‘The clerks’ room provided a first-class support service to George Laurence whilst he was working in Newcastle.‘
Radcliffe Chambers
Real estate litigation is a core focus for Radcliffe Chambers, with members appearing in significant disputes up to Court of Appeal and Supreme Court level, including landlord and tenant litigation, property tax disputes, planning permissions, and commercial property litigation. Instructions are sourced from solicitors alongside a growing number of direct industry instructions. Kate Selway QC regularly acts for government bodies, and offers particular expertise in tax relating to property transactions, representing HMRC in a number of SDLT cases. Edward Hicks represented Morshead Mansions, a tenant-owned landlord company, in a dispute with one of its shareholder-tenants. Howard Smith is a recognised expert on party wall cases, and is heavily involved in cases relating to the 1996 Party Wall Act, successfully representing defendants in an appeal relating to adjoining owner’s liability to contribute to repairs of a defective party wall. Nathan Wells appeared before the Court of Appeal in Borwick Development Solutions Ltd v Clear Water Fisheries Ltd, a case including the analysis of historic English and Roman law in exploring the issue of proprietary rights to live fish. .William Moffett's standout involvement is the Bath Rugby case, a dispute concerning the enforceability of a restrictive covenant of 1922 which would prevent the redevelopment of The Recreation Ground stadium.
Testimonials
Set
‘A leading set- highly approachable.‘
‘Very happy with chambers who are client focused, there to help and are very approachable.‘
Clerking
‘Always happy to help, makes solicitors job easier, I would highly recommend Justin Allen and John Clark.‘
‘The Clerks at Radcliffe are probably the best I’ve worked with. Extremely responsive and helpful.‘
‘John Clark is always very friendly and happy give guidance on availability of Counsel along with fees information and keeps in contact to ensure there are no problems throughout.‘
Serle Court
Members of Serle Court offer tailored expertise across key property litigation matters such as problems of easements, covenants, options, land registration and trusts. Rupert Reed QC has a diverse practice with particular emphasis on commercial, financial, and joint venture disputes, and led the representation of Al Jawhara bint Ibrahim Al Ibrahim , a widow of King Fahd of Saudi Arabia, in resisting claims to her property, Kenstead Hall in Highgate, by Asturion, a Liechtenstein entity. Andrew Francis is known for his specialism in rights of light, party walls and restrictive covenants, and led on McKay v Sackville, an important case on rights of light and the effect of lease terms on the ability to claim rights of light on major development in Reading city centre. Andrew Bruce is a part-time judge of the First-Tier Tribunal, Property Chamber, and acted for the objector in an application to modify a restrictive covenant under s.84(1)(aa) of the Law of Property Act 1925.
Testimonials
Set
‘Good set- worked with a number of barristers from there, reliable and some great technicians.‘
‘Serle Court is one of my go to sets. It has offered brilliant training over the years and the barristers are exceptionally good.‘
‘Excellent set of chambers, real strength in depth, a very broad range of skills and the best clerks in the business.‘
‘Excellent expertise in all types of property litigation.‘
Clerking
‘Generally very friendly, professional and commercial to deal with. Steve Whittaker leads by example, always helpful.‘
‘The clerks are very helpful. On occasions where we have sought to instruct a barrister, who was not available, they have endeavoured to try and find a solution.‘
‘The clerks are second to none. If I need urgent assistance, they are my number ibe!‘
Enterprise Chambers
Enterprise Chambers is a focused real estate litigation set, primarily acting for mid-tier City and national law firms. Members are heavily involved in landlord and tenant litigation, as well as more recently representing clients in mortgage and lease disputes. Kavan Gunaratna represents major landowners, business tenants, and companies in in business tenancy litigation, property-insolvency cases, and service charge disputes, acting for the owner of the Tolworth Tower against Travelodge’s controversial CVA proposals. Geoffrey Zelin is representing Royal London in its well-publicised dispute with Boots over the liability for rent under a number of leases. Sally Ann Blackmore represents residential and commercial clients in a variety of proceedings, including representing defendants in respect of a claim for damages and an injunction for breach of an alleged easement and trespass involving parcels of registered and unregistered land.
Testimonials
Set
‘The chambers are responsive and have a great strength in depth in particular on matters relating to property and insolvency.‘
‘Enterprise Chambers are a great set, particularly given their property and insolvency cross-over. They have offered phenomenal training during the pandemic which helped navigate some very difficult quick moving legislative changes.‘
Clerking
‘The clerks are all responsive.‘
‘Michael Ireland and Luke Clark are excellent and responsive.‘
‘Good long-term relationship with all the clerks who are responsive and flexible on fees when the need arises.‘
Henderson Chambers
Henderson Chambers has a diverse set of property-focused practitioners, with members appearing before major courts and tribunals in commercial property, landlord-tenant, real property, and co-ownership proceedings, acting for local and national governments, individuals, developers, estates, and landlords. Malcolm Sheehan QC is known for his expertise in property development issues for private and public sector developers, alongside infrastructure disputes, recognised for his work with his appointment as a part-time judge in the Property Chamber of the First-tier Tribunal. Jonathan Steinert specialises in contentious and non-contentious property law, including high-value property transactional and rent disputes. Noel Dilworth is heavily involved in boundary and ownership disputes, including precedent-setting Chancery proceedings, and represented the defendant (and counterclaimant) in a boundary dispute involving a Grade I listed property in West Sussex, which was settled at trial.
Testimonials
Set
‘Fabulous service – fast efficient and sensible on price.’
Clerking
‘Daniel Kemp remains one of the best Clerks out there. Really knows his onions. works fantastically well with his barristers and his clients. A driving force behind the success of Henderson Chambers.’
Falcon Chambers
Testimonials
Set
‘Outstanding chambers in this field. Strength in depth means they are our go to chambers.‘
‘Falcon is our go to set. They are unrivalled for breadth of expertise. We find counsel to be accessible and responsive – very user friendly. I have noted excellent output on social media (LinkedIn) and very good training programmes.‘
‘Enormous quality and strength in depth for real property disputes. Falcon Chambers has been the go to chambers for many years. My team and I have established a very close relationship with Falcon Chambers working with very many barristers. ‘
‘Falcon is our go to set. Members have a high level of expertise at all levels which which aid us in being able to recommend the set to clients.‘
Clerking
‘John Stannard leads the team and is always our first contact point. He has a strong sense of what is required by our clients and our team.‘
‘The clerking service is excellent and the senior clerk, John Stannard, is effective and brilliant at organising the barristers, and the courts.‘
‘The clerks at Falcon have been very helpful , especially at assisting with juggling various dates of availability of counsel to ensure that my clients are able to instruct their preferred counsel.‘
‘Excellent, a joy to work with. John Stannard in particular is excellent – incredibly helpful and will find a barrister however urgently needed!‘
Landmark Chambers
Landmark Chambers continues to expand its profile, praised as 'at the top of their game' as a property-focused set, with the profile of the practice reflected by the appointment of David Holland QC as head of chambers. The set handles residential property, landlord-tenant, and real property work, and can also offer specialist expertise in property insolvency, telecoms, and Land Registration. Holland QC, leading highly-rated senior junior Toby Watkin QC appeared before the Supreme Court in TW Logistics v Essex CC, a case relating whether a section of a working port could be ruled part of a Town or Village Green. Justin Bates is noted for his combined public law and property practice, representing public and private sector clients in landlord-tenant proceedings. Tom Weekes QC is representing in the high-profile Fearn v Board of Trustees of the Tate Gallery case concerning the art gallery's tenth floor viewing gallery, which is listed for the Supreme Court in December 2021. Myriam Stacey QC took silk in 2021, and covers aspects of real estate litigation, with a particular focus on commercial landlord and tenant and real estate disputes in connection with proposed and ongoing commercial developments. The set continues to expand, with Evie Barden arriving during 2020 and bolstering the chambers' property insolvency practice in particular.
Testimonials
Set
‘I regard Landmark Chambers as my first port of call from property disputes due to the quality of the counsel available and their breadth of knowledge.‘
‘Landmark have really stepped up over the last few years and are at the top of their game.‘
‘Landmark is a heavyweight player in the property world. Their planning environment and property reach is wide and their expertise covers all areas.‘
‘Fantastic set with a real breadth and depth of expertise.‘
Clerking
‘Mark Ball is fantastic and I can always rely on him to provide a prompt response whether it is by telephone or email.‘
‘Always responsive and accommodating. Mark Ball and Richard Bolton are the main contacts and both come highly recommended.‘
‘The clerks are always available to assist with urgent requests and have adapted well to receiving large bundles of documents electronically and ensuring papers are passed onto counsel efficiently.‘
‘Clerking service is excellent. Mark Ball leads the team from the from the front and is very easy to work with.‘
Gatehouse Chambers
Gatehouse Chambers has a strong and developing property offering, with a number of specialist practitioners offering expertise across commercial and residential landlord-tenant issues, nuisance claims, rates, lease renewals, and dilapidations claims. The addition of Faisel Sadiq in early 2021 from now-defunct Ely Place Chambers was a particular boost to the set's offering in rates disputes. The set receives instructions from leading property firms in the City and nationally. John de Waal QC and Katrina Mather are involved in the landmark British Medical Association v NHS Property Services case concerning premises fees charged to GP practices. Brie Stevens-Hoare QC and Emily Betts are involved in Triplark v Reiner & Wismayer , a case relating to the ability of a lessee who has completed the sale of a lease to a third party and been paid in full to seek relief from forfeiture. Practice co-head Jamal Demachkie played a key role in Ei Group PLC v Clarke, one of the only reported decisions on the Pub Code, which governs relationships between operators of pubs and the freehold owners of them who also supply them. Co-head Andy Creer represented the landlord in Boots (UK) Ltd v Frenchgate, an unusual example of a lease renewal going to trial, one of several cases relating to retail leases during 2020.
Testimonials
Set
‘Gatehouse has strength in depth at all levels of seniority. There is a consistent and high level of advice provided throughout the set.‘
‘Gatehouse have a huge strength in depth and a wonderfully led by a fantastic diverse and inclusive leadership team.‘
‘Fantastic – highly experienced counsel, lots of options at different levels, flexibility, modern approach etc.‘
‘Gatehouse offer a complete, highly efficient and friendly service all round in the field of property litigation. Also offer very good webinars.‘
Clerking
‘James Duncan-Hartill is one of the best around, always on top of everything. Patrick Sarson also good.‘
‘Excellent. Patrick Sarson is brilliant and very helpful.‘
‘Very good service here. Claire Gallacher in particular is very efficient and friendly.‘
‘All clerks are very good. They are responsive. Listen carefully to your requirements. Work flexibly and in an modern way. James Duncan Hartill is particularly good. They are good on fees, work to budgets where sensible and stick to them.‘
Tanfield Chambers
Tanfield Chambers is a focused property set with strong expertise across residential landlord and tenant work, real property, and commercial real estate disputes, alongside specialist areas such as party walls. Head of chambers Philip Rainey QC and Ellodie Gibbons represented the landlord in Sequent Nominees Ltd (Formerly Rotrust Nominees Ltd) v Hautford Ltd before the Supreme Court, securing a ruling preventing a tenant from obtaining planning permission without the landlord's permission. Another major case for Rainey QC was the successful in the Court of Appeal in enfranchisement case LM Homes v Queen Court Freehold Company Ltd, which also featured Carl Fain on the counsel team for the tenants. Kerry Bretherton QC is representing the hotel in Poste Hotels v Cousins, a High Court case relating to rights of way, arguing that the hotel owner had acquired by prescription a right of way over the cul-de-sac giving access to the laundry, which had been repeatedly blocked by the opponent's car, which both parties have sought permission to appeal to the Court of Appeal. Christopher Heather QC continues to represent the restaurant chain in the Performance Retail (General Partner) Ltd v Wagamama Ltd case relating to interpretations of a lease agreement.
Testimonials
Set
‘They have real strength in residential landlord and tenant including leaseholds. The volume and quality of their commercial property and real property work has improved.‘
‘This set is incredible and I only have good things to say about them, we always receive a very high level of service from both barristers and clerks. I would always come to Tanfield for residential matters and am keen to use them more on the commercial real estate disputes I am dealing with.‘
‘Tanfield Chambers are very easy to work with and our firm has an excellent working relationship with Counsel and clerks alike. The advice and advocacy from the chambers is exemplary and they are noted for making Counsel available to assist with matters at short notice when required.‘
‘Without exception every barrister i have instructed within Tanfield has been first class. They are all extremely easy to work with and nothing is ever too much of a problem.‘
Clerking
‘I work mainly with Alex Southern who is brilliant and always finds the right counsel for the job – he knows his set and their skills very well – he also seems to know which counsel will work best for particular cases.’
‘Richard Powell is a star. Nothing is too much trouble.’
‘The clerks are incredibly helpful, know the barristers well and recommend the right person for the job at the right level and fee. Billy Forecast is always my first choice of clerk.’
‘Excellent. So helpful and accommodating.‘
‘Clerks are all good, I have never had cause to complain. What I like is that in any question of fees or availability they are very responsive and clearly have a modern relationship with their counsel. I have also found them accommodating where needs have been pressing or a client’s situation has meant that out of hours availability has been needed. Their speed of response is excellent.‘
Wilberforce Chambers
Wilberforce Chambers combines notable senior expertise with a strong team of junior barristers, with a strong offering across the full range of property matters, most notably commercial landlord and tenant work, development disputes, mortgages, title disputes, and rural economy issues. Joanne Wicks QC and Emer Murphy appeared in the Duval v 11-13 Randolph Crescent Ltd case before the Supreme Court, a case relating to landlord-tenant permissions for covenant breaches. Martin Hutchings QC and James McCreath were involved in Devine v Housing Solutions Ltd, a legally significant restrictive covenants case concerning whether a developer who had knowingly constructed houses in breach of restrictive covenant could rely on the public interest in those houses being occupied to justify modifying the covenant. Jonathan Seitler QC is heavily involved in telecoms cases, particularly the burgeoning area of litigation relating to the new code, and appeared before the Court of Appeal in Cornerstone PLC v Ashloch, AP Wireless, which will determine what rights telecoms operators have under the new telecoms code during the term of a telecoms lease. Mark Wonnacott QC and Harriet Holmes were involved in The trustees of the Williams-Wynn 1987 Settlement v Natural Resources Body for Wales, a landmark mines and minerals case.
Testimonials
Set
‘Good at ensuring good relationships are maintained. Excellent, quick, responsive and personable. Very easy to work with.‘
‘Great set for property litigation and a number of excellent seniors and juniors – so real strength and depth. They have been very visible through the pandemic and great use of social media!‘
‘A very solid set with strength in depth and a good number of go to barristers. They will always provide a great service and a very supportive team.‘
‘Huge strength in depth throughout the field of property litigation. Its possible to find an expert in every aspect of contentious property work.‘
Clerking
‘Mark Rushton is a great clerk, very professional and a pleasure to deal with.‘
‘Very effective and efficient – fees are competitive. Helpful and responsive clerking team.‘
‘Really good, sensible, straight talking, don’t over promise and find a solution to most things.‘
‘The set is complemented by a knowledgeable, friendly and talented clerking team.‘
Maitland Chambers
Maitland Chambers has an 'outstanding' offering across commercial and residential property litigation, handling cases ranging from residential enfranchisement to property investment disputes on behalf of private individuals and multinational companies. The set is particularly known for its capabilities in high-value cases. John McGhee QC has been involved in two high-profile cases, leading Tim Calland in 89 Holland Park Management Ltd v Hicks, in which he represented the successful appellant in a significant restrictive covenants case, as well as successfully representing the defendant in EMI Group Ltd v Prudential Assurance Co Ltd alongside Maxim Cardew, which was a high-value commercial lease dispute. The set has also seen an increase in telecoms work, with Christopher Pymont QC representing AP Wireless in Cornerstone Telecommunications Infrastructure Limited v Ashloch Limited and AP Wireless II, a case relating to land rights under Part 4 of the Electronic Communications Code and the 1954 Landlord and Tenant Act.
Testimonials
Set
‘I have used a few barristers at Maitland over the 5 or so years I have worked with them and always been impressed. I think they have excellent strength in depth, counsel have always been available when needed (or shortly thereafter). ‘
‘I really enjoy working with Maitland and have done throughout my career. All of the barristers are first rate and easy to deal with, as are the clerks. ‘
‘Excellent set. My first choice. User friendly with a strong stable of counsel at all levels. ‘
‘Maitland is quite simply outstanding. We work with all different levels of call and are never disappointed. ‘
Clerking
‘ The clerks give us a first class service. They are responsive and very user friendly. Special mention for the wonderful Danny Wilkinson. ‘
‘ We get a good service from the clerks, quick to respond, straight forward. Recently dealt with Jason Windle who was easy to deal with. ‘
‘ Great clerks – quick and efficient. ‘
‘ Rob Penson is an outstanding clerk. ‘
Selborne Chambers
Selborne Chambers combines broad real property expertise with a 'truly fantastic' landlord and tenant offering, with members handling complex cases in areas including rights to light, easements, adverse possession, and trespass, alongside estates and development disputes, lease renewals, and breach of covenant cases. Jonathan McNae acted for the successful manager in the Canary Riverside Estate Management Limited & others v Coates & Circus Apartments Limited case, a long-running dispute between owner, landlord, and tenants including the creation of a confidentiality club. Mark Warwick QC maintains a leading practice across real property and landlord and tenant cases, and appeared for the appellant before the Court of Appeal in Dhillon v Barclays Bank plc & the Chief Land Registrar, a Land Registration Act case concerning whether, for the purposes of paragraph 3(3) of Schedule 4 to the Land Registration Act 2002, there were exceptional circumstances which justified the Court not making an order rectifying the land register in the wake of a mortgage fraud. Nicholas Trompeter QC took silk in 2021, and was involved in the Supreme Court test case Hurstwood Properties (A) Ltd v Rossendale Borough Council, concerning schemes designed to avoid the payment of national non-domestic rates on empty properties by leasing them to SPVs, acting for the respondents. Ian Clarke QC acted for the successful defendant in Richards v Harvey, a case concerning a high-value contractual claim relating to the sale of units at a development.
New Square Chambers
New Square Chambers has a strong focus on real property and landlord-tenant litigation, with members also regularly working on public law cases, professional negligence, and trusts claims in the proprety space. George Laurence QC is vastly experienced, having argued a number of precedent-setting cases before the Supreme Court and Court of Appeal, with one standout involvement being his leading role in Hampshire County Council v Secretary of State for the Environment Food and Rural Affairs, in which he represented Hampshire County Council, and secured an order quashing a decision of the Secretary of State ordering deregistration of 0.5km² area of common land under to the Commons Act 2006. Paul Wilmshurst handles boundary and easements, landlord-tenant, and negligence proceedings, and has a strong niche in harassment-related property cases including the high-profile L&Q v Tate County Court case, in which a leading housing association failed to support a young female tenant forced to flee her home following nine months of racist abuse from neighbours. Alexander Learmonth QC took silk in 2021, and is involved in a number of estates disputes. Senior junior Gary Pryce focuses on real property disputes, alongside commercial and residential landlord and tenant work, representing the under lessor in a high-value residential landlord and tenant claim, counterclaim and additional claim concerning a Marble Arch maisonette overlooking Hyde Park. Simon Adamyk has great expertise in rural property cases, and has experience of cases both in England and the British Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies.
Testimonials
Set
‘The team work together smoothly and effectively, with great support available whenever needed from the clerking team. Strength in depth and availability are excellent. ‘
‘New Square Chambers is a well-rounded set with a lot of strength in depth. The junior barristers are extremely competent and hard-working. ‘
‘The set has substantial in-depth expertise in a number of areas, including property litigation. New Square Chambers can field individuals with expertise in any aspect of those areas. Members of Chambers have appeared in this field at all levels of the hierarchy, from public inquiries to County Court to High Court to Court of Appeal to the Supreme Court and Privy Council. They offer a remarkable pool of knowledge and expertise. ‘
‘ Welcoming and helpful to our clients at conferences. They have a commercial sense when it comes to fees, always realistic and approachable keeping in mind client budget and expectations. When time was tight for an urgent injunction, the clerks New Square Chambers joined in the effort to get the case ready for court on time. ‘
Clerking
‘The clerks are a friendly bunch who do their best to accommodate. They will offer a range of counsel, usually tailored to meet the client’s wallet, and are generally quick to get back to you.’
‘Very friendly and super efficient clerks. A professional and well-run set.‘
‘The clerks have outstanding knowledge of practice and procedure and are always available.‘
‘The clerks’ room provided a first-class support service to George Laurence whilst he was working in Newcastle.‘
Radcliffe Chambers
Real estate litigation is a core focus for Radcliffe Chambers, with members appearing in significant disputes up to Court of Appeal and Supreme Court level, including landlord and tenant litigation, property tax disputes, planning permissions, and commercial property litigation. Instructions are sourced from solicitors alongside a growing number of direct industry instructions. Kate Selway QC regularly acts for government bodies, and offers particular expertise in tax relating to property transactions, representing HMRC in a number of SDLT cases. Edward Hicks represented Morshead Mansions, a tenant-owned landlord company, in a dispute with one of its shareholder-tenants. Howard Smith is a recognised expert on party wall cases, and is heavily involved in cases relating to the 1996 Party Wall Act, successfully representing defendants in an appeal relating to adjoining owner’s liability to contribute to repairs of a defective party wall. Nathan Wells appeared before the Court of Appeal in Borwick Development Solutions Ltd v Clear Water Fisheries Ltd, a case including the analysis of historic English and Roman law in exploring the issue of proprietary rights to live fish. .William Moffett's standout involvement is the Bath Rugby case, a dispute concerning the enforceability of a restrictive covenant of 1922 which would prevent the redevelopment of The Recreation Ground stadium.
Testimonials
Set
‘A leading set- highly approachable.‘
‘Very happy with chambers who are client focused, there to help and are very approachable.‘
Clerking
‘Always happy to help, makes solicitors job easier, I would highly recommend Justin Allen and John Clark.‘
‘The Clerks at Radcliffe are probably the best I’ve worked with. Extremely responsive and helpful.‘
‘John Clark is always very friendly and happy give guidance on availability of Counsel along with fees information and keeps in contact to ensure there are no problems throughout.‘
Serle Court
Members of Serle Court offer tailored expertise across key property litigation matters such as problems of easements, covenants, options, land registration and trusts. Rupert Reed QC has a diverse practice with particular emphasis on commercial, financial, and joint venture disputes, and led the representation of Al Jawhara bint Ibrahim Al Ibrahim , a widow of King Fahd of Saudi Arabia, in resisting claims to her property, Kenstead Hall in Highgate, by Asturion, a Liechtenstein entity. Andrew Francis is known for his specialism in rights of light, party walls and restrictive covenants, and led on McKay v Sackville, an important case on rights of light and the effect of lease terms on the ability to claim rights of light on major development in Reading city centre. Andrew Bruce is a part-time judge of the First-Tier Tribunal, Property Chamber, and acted for the objector in an application to modify a restrictive covenant under s.84(1)(aa) of the Law of Property Act 1925.
Testimonials
Set
‘Good set- worked with a number of barristers from there, reliable and some great technicians.‘
‘Serle Court is one of my go to sets. It has offered brilliant training over the years and the barristers are exceptionally good.‘
‘Excellent set of chambers, real strength in depth, a very broad range of skills and the best clerks in the business.‘
‘Excellent expertise in all types of property litigation.‘
Clerking
‘Generally very friendly, professional and commercial to deal with. Steve Whittaker leads by example, always helpful.‘
‘The clerks are very helpful. On occasions where we have sought to instruct a barrister, who was not available, they have endeavoured to try and find a solution.‘
‘The clerks are second to none. If I need urgent assistance, they are my number ibe!‘
Enterprise Chambers
Enterprise Chambers is a focused real estate litigation set, primarily acting for mid-tier City and national law firms. Members are heavily involved in landlord and tenant litigation, as well as more recently representing clients in mortgage and lease disputes. Kavan Gunaratna represents major landowners, business tenants, and companies in in business tenancy litigation, property-insolvency cases, and service charge disputes, acting for the owner of the Tolworth Tower against Travelodge’s controversial CVA proposals. Geoffrey Zelin is representing Royal London in its well-publicised dispute with Boots over the liability for rent under a number of leases. Sally Ann Blackmore represents residential and commercial clients in a variety of proceedings, including representing defendants in respect of a claim for damages and an injunction for breach of an alleged easement and trespass involving parcels of registered and unregistered land.
Testimonials
Set
‘The chambers are responsive and have a great strength in depth in particular on matters relating to property and insolvency.‘
‘Enterprise Chambers are a great set, particularly given their property and insolvency cross-over. They have offered phenomenal training during the pandemic which helped navigate some very difficult quick moving legislative changes.‘
Clerking
‘The clerks are all responsive.‘
‘Michael Ireland and Luke Clark are excellent and responsive.‘
‘Good long-term relationship with all the clerks who are responsive and flexible on fees when the need arises.‘
Henderson Chambers
Henderson Chambers has a diverse set of property-focused practitioners, with members appearing before major courts and tribunals in commercial property, landlord-tenant, real property, and co-ownership proceedings, acting for local and national governments, individuals, developers, estates, and landlords. Malcolm Sheehan QC is known for his expertise in property development issues for private and public sector developers, alongside infrastructure disputes, recognised for his work with his appointment as a part-time judge in the Property Chamber of the First-tier Tribunal. Jonathan Steinert specialises in contentious and non-contentious property law, including high-value property transactional and rent disputes. Noel Dilworth is heavily involved in boundary and ownership disputes, including precedent-setting Chancery proceedings, and represented the defendant (and counterclaimant) in a boundary dispute involving a Grade I listed property in West Sussex, which was settled at trial.
Testimonials
Set
‘Fabulous service – fast efficient and sensible on price.’
Clerking
‘Daniel Kemp remains one of the best Clerks out there. Really knows his onions. works fantastically well with his barristers and his clients. A driving force behind the success of Henderson Chambers.’