Costs and your choices

The solicitor's success fee

If your claim is successful, the solicitor charges a success fee of 25% of the compensation recovered, plus VAT. At the current VAT rate of 20%, this is 30% of your compensation including VAT.

For example, if you recover £1,000 in compensation:

Success fee (25%)

£250

VAT on the success fee (20%)

£50

Total success fee including VAT (30%)

£300

Amount remaining before any other agreed charges

£700

This example covers the success fee only. Other charges may also apply under your agreement with the solicitor.

Other charges and cancellation

Depending on the solicitor's agreement, there may be insurance premiums, other deductions or charges if you cancel.

Before you agree to use the solicitor, ask for a written explanation of all charges, what you could pay if your claim is unsuccessful, and your cancellation rights. Ask when a cancellation charge could apply and how it would be calculated.

The solicitor's written terms should explain the total costs that apply to your case. Make sure you understand them before proceeding.

Free information and advice

Find independent information about your rights and options.

The right complaint route depends on your landlord and where you live.

You have other options

You do not have to use a claims management company. You can complain to your landlord yourself for free or contact a solicitor directly.

After following your landlord’s complaints process, these ombudsman services may be able to help for free. Their eligibility rules and remit apply.

An ombudsman complaint and a court claim are different processes. A solicitor can advise you about whether a court claim is appropriate and its potential costs.