When conversations break down during a renovation, it can feel like the whole project is unravelling. Emotions run high, misunderstandings escalate, and suddenly, the home you were creating becomes a source of daily stress.

But there’s a better way to move forward.

Mediation offers a confidential, affordable, and collaborative route through renovation disputes that puts solutions (not blame) at the centre. Whether you're a homeowner, contractor, or neighbour caught in a disagreement, mediation can help you regain control, preserve relationships, and reach a resolution that works for everyone involved.

Here’s why more people turn to mediation instead of court — and how the process works.

The advantages of mediation

1. Cost-effective: Mediation is significantly cheaper than going to court. Under the Civil Mediation Council’s Fixed Fee Scheme, costs range from £100 + VAT to £325 + VAT per party for most disputes, with fees arranged case by case for higher-value issues.

2. Faster resolution: Mediation can often be arranged within a couple of weeks, and most disputes are resolved in a single session.

3. Less stressful: Mediation provides a confidential, neutral space for discussion, avoiding the pressure of court proceedings.

4. More likely to preserve relationships (than litigation): Particularly important in renovation disputes, mediation encourages constructive communication and helps maintain goodwill. Maintaining relationships can, in itself, be an objective of mediation.

5. Control over outcomes: Both parties shape the resolution rather than having decisions imposed by a judge.

How mediation works

Mediation usually begins with an initial conversation to understand and agree on the process and confirm that mediation suits everyone involved. It is an entirely voluntary process that is binding once an agreement is reached.

This is followed by structured sessions where both parties work through their concerns, sometimes with private discussions facilitated by the mediator. If an agreement is reached, it is written up as a settlement of the dispute and signed by both parties.

The mediation can be remote and completely conducted over video conferencing calls, for example. This has many advantages. Paties to a conflict can enjoy the cost efficiency of not having to rent a room or travel. comfort from home, coupled with confidentiality for private meetings, and the freedom to take breaks without waiting in a room.

Why choose mediation?

Mediation offers a less formal way to resolve disputes compared to going through court proceedings. It allows both parties to voice their concerns in a neutral and safe environment, with the help of a trained mediator who acts as a neutral third party.

Mediation also promotes communication and collaboration rather than confrontation, which can often lead to more satisfactory outcomes for all involved. It is also typically faster and less expensive than going through court proceedings.

In addition, mediation allows for creative solutions that may not be available through traditional legal processes. This can result in more personalised and mutually beneficial agreements for both parties.

Overall, choosing mediation can provide a more efficient and effective resolution process while

Is mediation suitable for most home renovation disputes?

Mediation suits disputes where parties are willing to engage constructively, including disagreements between homeowners, contractors/ sole traders, or neighbours. It’s ideal for those seeking a faster, more collaborative resolution without the financial and emotional cost of litigation.

Let’s talk

Disputes can be overwhelming, and it’s not always easy to see a way forward. Mediation offers a calm, impartial approach to help you overcome the conflict. If you’d like to understand more about the process or see if it’s right for your situation, please get in touch. I’m here to listen and guide you through the following steps.

You can reach me by email or via The Place Between Contact Page.