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Rental disputes often arise without warning. Even when the landlord–tenant relationship has been smooth, unexpected conflicts can suddenly appear. When this happens, many people immediately think of going to court or hiring a lawyer, which can feel overwhelming.

Before taking the lawsuit route, it’s worth knowing about a practical and cost-effective alternative: the Housing Lease Mediation System. Even legal professionals frequently recommend mediation first because it is faster, less expensive, and often more agreeable for both parties.

In this post, based on expert insights from SGI Seoul Guarantee’s interview and real mediation cases, we’ll walk through when mediation is helpful, what issues can be resolved objectively, and how landlords and tenants can use this process to settle disputes smoothly.

Here are the three most common types of lease disputes, explained with real examples and clear legal responsibility. Mediation can help clarify the facts and guide both parties toward a fair agreement.

📌 Case 1. Scope of Restoration

• Normal wear and tear (discoloration, minor scratches) is the landlord’s responsibility.
• Damage caused by the tenant’s negligence or installation work is the tenant’s responsibility.
• Mediation offers on-site inspections to determine a reasonable restoration cost.

📌 Case 2. False “Self-Occupancy” Claim

When a landlord denies renewal claiming self-use but later leases to another person, it violates the Housing Lease Protection Act. Compensation is calculated based on:
1) 24 months of increased rent
2) 3 months of converted rent
3) Actual loss — whichever is greatest.

📌 Case 3. Excessive Heating Bills

Mediation committees may conduct investigations or consult experts to determine whether the issue stems from structural defects (landlord’s responsibility) or improper use (tenant’s responsibility).

Mediation is often far more efficient than going to court. While lawsuits can take months or even years, mediation typically reaches a conclusion within weeks. 

This makes it especially valuable for disputes that require quick decisions, such as repair issues, excessive heating bills, or wrongful renewal denial.

It is inexpensive, easy to file (even verbally), and allows the committee to conduct fact-finding investigations immediately.

 Moreover, compensation claims related to agent negligence can now be made based on the mediation document without needing a court judgment.

Starting mediation is much simpler than most people expect. You only need basic information about the dispute, and missing documents can be added later.

• Check the official site of the Korea Legal Aid Corporation: https://www.klac.or.kr
• Fill out the application with details of the dispute and attach supporting materials.
• The committee will schedule the mediation session and may conduct inspections or request expert input.
• Once an agreement is reached, a mediation document is issued and carries legal effect.

Here are the most frequently asked questions about lease dispute mediation, based on real cases and practical experience.

1. Does a mediation agreement have legal force?
Yes. Once finalized, the mediation document has the same legal effect as a court judgment.

2. Can a lawsuit be switched to mediation?
Yes, many lawsuits end up being referred to mediation for quicker resolution.

3. What if I lack evidence?
The committee may conduct inspections or seek expert opinions to determine the facts.

4. What if the other party avoids contact?
Official notice is sent by the committee; avoidance does not block the process.

5. Does mediation help with agent negligence?
Yes. The mediation document alone is enough to request compensation from SGI Seoul Guarantee.

6. Mediation or litigation — which first?
Mediation is recommended first due to lower cost and faster results.

Lease disputes can be exhausting, but not all conflicts need to go to court. Mediation offers a faster, more affordable, and far more practical way to resolve issues.

The committee’s neutral investigation and structured process help both sides reach a fair solution in a much shorter time compared to litigation.

Share this guide with someone who may need it — information can be powerful, especially during stressful housing disputes.