Swinburne Maddison LLP’s property litigation team provides a niche specialism in handling disputes involving tenant issues, namely nuisance and disruption in the social housing space. Durham-based practice head David Low – also a key figure within the social housing team – is experienced in residential, commercial and agricultural disputes, acting on behalf of individuals, small businesses, large corporate bodies, landlords and tenants. Also based in Durham, Lewis Brown is a key point of contact for clients seeking advice on housing disrepair matters, neighbour disputes, construction litigation, and contractual issues.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘The administrative side of the practice is well organised. Communications are dealt with promptly, efficiently and courteously.’

  • ‘I was pleased to have David Low's personal attention at the precise moment that it was required. His work has been intelligent, measured, efficiently directed, productive and effective.’

  • ‘We believe that the major selling point for this firm is the way their staff fulfil their roles in an outstanding professional manner.’

  • ‘We have primarily dealt with Lewis Brown. He has impressed us with the timely manner in dealing with correspondence, keeping us abreast of any developments.'

  • ‘The approach by Swinburne Maddison is entirely customer-focussed with strong client relationships and a genuine ambition to understand the customer needs, as well as being accessible and responsive throughout case management.'

  • ‘David Lowe has a wealth of legal knowledge and experience, complemented by common sense. He is always approachable, quick to respond to enquiries, and it is a pleasure to work with him. Instructions are always clear, commendably brief and given in good time.’

  • ‘David Low gives excellent advice, with a big dose of common sense and realism.’

  • ‘Lewis Brown is excellent. He is responsive, across the issues and commercially minded.’

Key clients

  • Durham Cathedral
  • Beyond Housing Limited
  • The Esh Group
  • Believe Housing Limited
  • TJD Properties Limited
  • University of Law
  • MC Lettings
  • Gilesgate Properties Limited
  • Derwent Angling Association
  • St Cuthbert’s Walk Limited Partnership
  • The Empress Bar Limited
  • Livin Housing
  • Leeds City Council
  • Claxton Estates Limited
  • Moving On Limited
  • The Liquor & Restaurant Group Limited
  • Kiss the Moon Limited
  • H&H Land & Estates Ltd
  • Arrow Commercial Limited
  • Beyond Leisure Limited

Work highlights

  • Acting on behalf of a client in connection with a proprietary estoppel dispute concerning the transfer of two properties valued at £500,000, which were allegedly promised in settlement of services rendered.
  • Continuing to act for a large local authority in connection with ongoing housing disrepair claims, with more than 2800 matters being handled to date.
  • Acting on behalf of a longstanding client in connection with a mines and minerals dispute over land which is designated for residential development.

Lawyers

Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

David Low

Other key lawyers

Lewis Brown