Form T373 UK: Reply to Notice of Reference Guide

What this document is

Form T373 is the Upper Tribunal (Lands Chamber) form that a respondent completes after receiving a Notice of Reference. The Lands Chamber deals with a range of property-related matters, including compulsory purchase compensation disputes, restrictive covenant applications, rating appeals and certain leasehold matters referred up from the First-tier Tribunal.

When a reference is made, the Tribunal notifies the respondent and asks them to use this form to respond formally. The form has two main purposes. First, it confirms who the respondent is and how they (or their representative) can be contacted throughout the case.

Second, it captures important case management information: whether expert evidence will be called, how many experts may be needed, and which Tribunal procedure the respondent prefers. There is also space for a statement of case, where the respondent sets out their position on the matters raised in the Notice of Reference.

Returning the form on time keeps the respondent engaged in the process and gives the Tribunal what it needs to move the case forward.

How to use this document

1. Read the Notice of Reference carefully. Before you touch Form T373, go through the Notice of Reference in full. It tells you what the case is about, who the applicant is, and what they are asking the Tribunal to decide. Note any deadlines mentioned, because the timeframe for filing your response runs from the date on the Notice.
2. Complete your respondent details and representative information. In the first section, fill in your full name, address, telephone number and email. If you've instructed a solicitor, surveyor or other representative to act for you, enter their details too and confirm their professional capacity. Make sure the contact information is one you check regularly, because this is where the Tribunal will send correspondence.
3. Decide your position on expert evidence. The form asks whether you intend to rely on an expert witness, and if so, whether you'll need more than one. Valuation cases, in particular, often turn on expert evidence. Think about whether your argument depends on technical opinion from a surveyor, valuer or other specialist before ticking the boxes, because this shapes how the Tribunal manages the case.
4. Choose the procedure you want the Tribunal to follow. The Lands Chamber offers different procedures, typically the standard procedure, a special procedure for more complex matters, and written representations where no hearing is needed. Indicate your preference and give your reasons. The choice affects cost, speed and how much evidence the Tribunal expects, so this is worth considering carefully.
5. Write your statement of case, sign and file. Use the statement of case section to explain your response to the issues raised in the reference. Attach any supporting documents and tick the list to show what you've enclosed. Sign the form to confirm the information is true, then file it with the Tribunal within the required time, using the E-Filing service if you prefer to manage the case online.

Common questions