LegalforLandlords: How one problem became 15 years of success
If a genie offered you a problem-free life, would you take it? Many would opt for the lack of worry and the convenience, but they’d be passing up the chance to learn and grow. Solving problems is how change happens.
Back in 2009, private landlord Sim Sekhon couldn’t find the affordable legal help he needed. No doubt he wished his problems would disappear. But Sekhon isn’t the type to wait for a solution to drop into his lap. He’s far too proactive for that.
Sekhon understood that high street solicitors – the traditional legal route – were rarely experts in property rental law. What’s more, the typical charge-by-the-hour model left landlords facing a combination of uncertainty, slow progress and hefty bills. He saw the opportunity to provide the kind of service that he – and numerous other landlords – needed, and Legal4Landlords was born.
Sekhon’s fledgling business grew. The range of services expanded. In addition to fixed-fee legal services, the company introduced tenant referencing and insurance to its offering. Despite the rapid growth and expansion of the team – it’s now over fifty strong – the commitment to friendly professionalism and clear, affordable fees was maintained. In 2024, that commitment is still in place and contributing to the business’s excellent rating on Trustpilot.
Some might find it surprising that the business – now known by the subtly different name LegalforLandlords – also serves the needs of tenants and over four hundred letting agents. Sekhon, however, believes that it’s entirely possible to have a property rental sector that works for all stakeholders. He sees no contradiction in helping landlords needing to appoint bailiffs and helping a first-time tenant sort their utilities. He told us, ‘When we see an opportunity to deliver a service that people need, we work out what needs to be done, and then we do it. As an example, we’re now protecting around £45m of rental income and giving landlords real peace of mind.’
Clearly the driving force, Sekhon, is reluctant to take all the credit for the business’s success. Over the years, key appointments have been pivotal and there has always been an emphasis on supporting the team’s development. It’s perhaps why the Warrington-based team has loyal customers right across the UK.
A business celebrating a significant milestone – LegalforLandlords celebrates its fifteenth birthday on August 2nd – will naturally be looking back at its achievements, but Sekhon always has an eye on current events and future developments. He retains a great passion for the sector and its often beleaguered landlords and letting agents. The company has recovered hundreds of thousands in rent arrears and dealt with evictions at every county court in the UK.
He told us, ‘We will keep sticking up for this industry, supporting best practice and professionalism throughout. We’ll use our expertise and enthusiasm to solve problems and deliver effective solutions. It’s not always easy, but it’s always worth the effort.’
