Disputes can happen even when you have done everything right. If you are asking what is dispute resolution, it usually means a problem has stalled and you want a fair outcome without the cost and stress of court.
This guide explains what dispute resolution means, the main ways it works in the UK, and how homeowners can take practical steps to resolve issues calmly and efficiently.
What is dispute resolution and why it matters
Dispute resolution is a broad term for ways to settle disagreements between two sides, such as a homeowner and a trader, without the situation dragging on indefinitely.
In many cases, it includes alternative dispute resolution, often shortened to ADR. According to Citizens Advice guidance on using alternative dispute resolution, ADR covers methods like mediation, conciliation, arbitration, and ombudsman routes, and it is often cheaper and less stressful than going to court.
For consumer disputes, there is also a clear compliance framework. The Department for Business and Trade and the Chartered Trading Standards Institute explain that ADR is an out of court resolution carried out by an independent third party and that the 2015 ADR regulations affect businesses that contract with consumers. See Business Companion guidance on alternative dispute resolution.
For homeowners, the value is simple.
- You can often reach an outcome faster
- You can avoid the emotional strain of a long dispute
- You can move on with clear next steps
Common dispute resolution options and how they work with supporting data
The right option depends on the type of dispute and how far it has progressed. The most common routes are:
Mediation
Mediation is a structured conversation supported by an impartial mediator. The mediator does not decide who is right or wrong. Their role is to help both sides reach a workable agreement.
Mediation is widely used in UK civil and commercial disputes. According to the CEDR Tenth Mediation Audit 2023, the civil and commercial mediation market in England and Wales was around 17,000 cases in the year ended 30 September 2022.
Court linked mediation for small claims
If your dispute moves toward the small claims process, mediation can still play a role. Government analysis of the HMCTS Small Claims Mediation Service noted that 52.5 per cent of cases that go to the service are resolved, although uptake at the time was 19 per cent. See the HMCTS mediation impact assessment published on GOV.UK.
Arbitration
Arbitration is more formal. An arbitrator makes a decision, and depending on the scheme, it can be binding. It is not the right fit for every homeowner dispute, but it can be useful when a final decision is needed.
Ombudsman schemes
An ombudsman can investigate complaints in certain sectors and make decisions or recommendations depending on the scheme. Citizens Advice explains that ombudsman routes can be used after you have tried the provider complaints process first and enough time has passed. See Citizens Advice guidance on ombudsmen in ADR.
Common homeowner questions and concerns
Do I have to go to court to resolve a dispute
Not usually. According to GOV.UK policy guidance on alternative dispute resolution for consumers, ADR exists to help resolve disputes without going to court and is encouraged as a way to reduce cost and delay.
What if the trader refuses to engage
Some ADR routes are voluntary, and some are tied to membership schemes or sector rules. If you are trying to find an appropriate ADR provider, the Chartered Trading Standards Institute maintains a list of ADR approved bodies.
What should I do before I start ADR
Start with evidence and clear communication. Citizens Advice sets out practical steps for using ADR and highlights the importance of written evidence and understanding whether outcomes are binding. See Citizens Advice guidance on using ADR.
How to resolve a dispute without going to court
If you want a calm and structured way forward, use this sequence.
- Put the issue in writing
Explain what happened, what you want, and what a fair fix looks like.
- Ask for the business complaints process
Many disputes can be resolved here if both sides stick to clear timelines.
- Gather your evidence
Keep contracts, quotes, emails, photos, and any notes of conversations.
- Consider ADR
Government guidance sets out how ADR works for consumer disputes and why it is encouraged as an alternative to court. See GOV.UK alternative dispute resolution for consumers.
- Use an ADR provider appropriate to your dispute
The Trading Standards list of approved bodies can help you find a route that fits. See CTSI ADR approved bodies list.
What dispute resolution means for homeowners
Disputes do not need to become court battles. Once you understand what dispute resolution is, you can find the right support to fit the problem, keep things fair, and helps you move forward.
If you are stuck in a dispute and direct communication is not working, QURE Group can support a clear, impartial resolution process so both sides can reach a practical outcome without unnecessary delay.
If you want a clear and impartial way forward with a dispute relating to your home, QURE Group can help. We support homeowners through structured dispute resolution, helping both sides reach a fair outcome without unnecessary delay or court action.
Please contact us to find out more.
Email – info@quregroup.co.uk
Telephone – 0800 211 8000
