Housing Disrepair Solicitor (HDR)
Job Type: Permanent, Full-time
Salary: Up to £45,000 depending on experience
Experience: Minimum 2-4+ years PQE (Solicitor)
Location: Nelson
Type: Office/Hybrid
We are looking for an experienced Housing Disrepair Solicitor (HDR) to join Bridgewater Solicitors, a growing firm that provides personal career development and job satisfaction. This role is focused on managing a caseload of pre and post litigation housing disrepair claims. This role suits a proactive solicitor who is confident running files with autonomy, drafting pleadings and applications and negotiating settlements.
Duties:
- Manage your own caseload of housing disrepair claims (pre-litigation and litigated matters) from initial instruction through to trail or settlement
- Take client instructions, assess merits, and provide practical, accurate advice on liability, quantum, strategy, and next steps
- Draft letters of claim, particulars of claim, witness statements, schedules of loss, and other key documents
- Instruct/liaise with independent experts (e.g. Surveyors)
- Negotiate with defendants, local authorities, landlords, and their insurers/solicitors to achieve fair settlements
- Issue proceedings, manage litigation timelines, and prepare matters for hearing or trial when required
- Maintain accurate file records, costs information, and compliance with SRA standards, court rules, and firm procedures
- Support paralegals where appropriate and contribute to team knowledge-sharing
Skills:
- 2-4 + years PQE in handling housing disrepair, personal injury or related civil litigation
- Experience in housing disrepair and/or housing litigation (claimant or defendant)
- Strong understanding of the Pre-Action Protocol for Housing Conditions Claims, relevant CPR provisions, and quantum principles
- Proven ability to run a caseload independently, including drafting and negotiation
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex issues clearly to clients
- Strong organisational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to prioritise a busy workload
- Commercial awareness and a results-focused approach to case strategy and costs
Person specification:
- Advocacy experience or confidence instructing counsel
- Familiarity with legal case-management systems LEAP
- Diligence with an overall can-do attitude
- Complete tasks in a timely manner and maintain organised office systems
- Excellent conversational and interpersonal skills
Benefits:
- 22 days holiday a year
- Company Pension
Pay: Up to £45,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Casual dress
- Free parking
- On-site parking
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Nelson BB9 7TZ
