What happens at mediation
The mediator will help you talk about the issue with the other person and reach an agreement.
What happens in a Mediation - Tenancy Services (transcript)
Before a mediation, you should think about your concerns, how the issues affect you and how the problems could be solved. Make sure you have up to date records and information, such as your rent summary or notices you have given to the other person.
In a mediation, the mediator will ask both sides to speak in turns. Focus on talking about the current issues and listen carefully to what the other person has to say. The mediator will ensure both sides have enough time to talk about their concerns and to suggest options on how to resolve the disputes.
During the discussions, write down any questions you have and ask the other person or the mediator to clarify when it is your turn to speak. Try to understand the other person’s views and find common ground to resolving the disputes.
For more information about our mediation service, or how to apply and prepare for a mediation, see the Disputes section on our website.
Mediators don’t take sides, their role is to help people sort out tenancy disputes. They aren’t lawyers, judges or counsellors. Mediators are very experienced in tenancy issues and can help with questions about tenancy law.
What the mediator does
In the mediation session, the mediator will:
- ask each of you to share your view of the situation
- help you work out ways to solve the problem
- give information that will help your discussion, eg, information on the law
- make sure everyone has their say
- make sure everyone behaves in fair and reasonable way
- help you reach a fair agreement.
The mediator will guide you through the process, but they can’t decide anything for you. This is different from a Tenancy Tribunal hearing, where the adjudicator will make a decision about your situation.
What happens next will depend on whether or not you reached an agreement.
