The Most Common Property Conflicts (And How to Resolve Them)
Property investment is often painted as the path to financial freedom—and it can be. But anyone who’s been in the game long enough knows it’s not all smooth sailing. Conflicts are inevitable, whether it’s a tricky tenant, an unreliable joint venture partner, or a builder who lets you down. What separates successful investors from the rest isn’t avoiding problems—it’s learning how to resolve them effectively.
As “The Property Conflict Queen,” I’ve encountered and resolved my fair share of disputes. Let me share one story that stands out.
The High-Profile Builder Who Walked Off Site
A few years ago, I was working on a project to convert a maisonette with a garage into three flats. I’d hired a builder with a fantastic public image—someone highly regarded in the industry. On the surface, he seemed like the perfect choice. But as the project unfolded, it became clear that his reputation didn’t match his performance.
He began struggling to manage his cash flow, asking for payments upfront even though his terms were to be paid in arrears for materials and labour. When I questioned this, he walked off the site, leaving behind a trail of chaos. Contractors hadn’t been paid, essential paperwork was incomplete, and the project was nowhere near finished.
To make matters worse, he took me to small claims court, citing a clause in his terms and conditions that he believed entitled him to claim for work he hadn’t completed. I had to step in, sort through the mess, pay the contractors directly, and hire someone else to finish the job. At the same time, I prepared to defend myself in court and counterclaimed. Thankfully, the judge saw through his arguments and threw out his case entirely.
This experience taught me two critical lessons. First, public image isn’t always reality—do your research. As Warren Buffett famously said, “It takes 20 years to build a reputation and five minutes to ruin it.” Second, in property investment, you sometimes have to roll up your sleeves and tackle the tough stuff. And when the metaphorical shit hits the fan, it helps to have a toolkit—and the expertise to use it.
The Most Common Property Conflicts
The builder story is just one example of the many types of conflicts property investors face. Here are some of the most frequent disputes—and tips on how to handle them.
1. Landlord-Tenant Disputes
Issues like unpaid rent, property maintenance disagreements, and disputes over deposits can quickly escalate if not handled well. Communication is key. Set clear expectations upfront with detailed tenancy agreements and always address problems promptly. “The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place.” – George Bernard Shaw
2. Joint Venture (JV) Fallouts
Working with a JV partner can be fantastic—until it isn’t. Disagreements over profit-sharing, timelines, or responsibilities can strain relationships. I’ve experienced partners trying to hold me ransom over money and terms, which is why it’s essential to have a clear agreement in place before you start.
3. Builder or Contractor Issues
As my story shows, builder conflicts are far too common. From poor workmanship to mismanaged cash flow, the stakes are high when your project is on the line. Always vet contractors thoroughly, use proper contracts, and keep payments tied to progress milestones.
4. Neighbour Disputes
Neighbours can cause unexpected challenges, from disputes over access to complaints about noise during renovations. Being polite, professional, and willing to negotiate can go a long way—but know your legal rights if the situation escalates.
5. Landlord-Landlord Friction
In HMO properties or blocks of flats, conflicts between landlords can arise over shared responsibilities like maintenance or parking arrangements. Clear agreements on shared costs and obligations can help prevent this.
How to Resolve Property Conflicts
1. Stay Calm and Professional
Emotions can run high, but staying calm will help you think clearly and keep the conversation productive. “You can’t always control the situation, but you can control how you respond to it.” – Unknown
2. Document Everything
As a journalist, I was trained to always back up what I report. In property disputes, this principle of “show, don’t tell” is invaluable. Keep records of agreements, payments, and communications. These can be the difference between winning and losing a dispute.
3. Use Mediation
Mediation is often faster and cheaper than going to court. It allows both parties to reach a fair resolution without the cost and stress of litigation.
4. Know When to Walk Away
Sometimes, the best resolution is to cut your losses and move on. Not every fight is worth your time, energy, or money.
Want to Go Deeper?
If you’re dealing with a property conflict, don’t face it alone. I’ve created resources to help you:
- The Property Conflict Resolution Toolkit – A downloadable guide with checklists, scripts, and practical tips to navigate conflicts effectively.
Sign up today to access these tools and join my email list so you don’t miss future blogs and resources. Together, we’ll tackle property conflicts like a pro.
Final Thoughts
Conflicts are part of the journey in property investment. What matters most is how you handle them. Whether it’s a builder walking off-site or a tenant dispute, having the right mindset and tools can turn a frustrating experience into an opportunity to grow.
As The Property Conflict Queen, my mission is to help investors like you navigate the toughest challenges with confidence. Let’s tackle property conflicts together—sign up for my free resources today and take the first step toward resolution.
Kelly Lemon
