Eligibility Checklist for the Small Claims Track
Check whether your dispute is suitable for the County Court small claims track.
Overview
The small claims track is the default track for claims with a value of up to £10,000 (CPR r.26.6). It is designed for straightforward disputes where the parties can realistically represent themselves. The track is not appropriate for all disputes — some types of claim should proceed on a different track regardless of value. Assignment to the small claims track means very limited costs recovery: even if you win, you cannot generally recover legal fees.
Monetary Limits
Your claim is for £10,000 or less (or £1,000 or less for personal injury claims where the claimant is an individual)(Essential)
Claims for £25,000 or less in housing disrepair cases can also use the small claims track in certain circumstances
If your claim is for more than £10,000, you may still agree with the other side to use the small claims track
Suitable Claim Types
Contract disputes (e.g. builder fails to complete work, faulty goods, unpaid invoices)
Consumer disputes (e.g. goods not of satisfactory quality under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, s.9)
Disputes about money owed between individuals or businesses
Simple negligence claims not involving personal injury exceeding £1,000
The claim is NOT: libel, slander, fraud, professional negligence (complex), or a claim that needs expert evidence the court would not permit(Essential)
These types of claim require the fast track or multi-track
Procedural Requirements
You have sent a pre-action letter and allowed a reasonable time for a response (14–28 days)(Essential)
Courts expect claimants to have tried to resolve the dispute before issuing proceedings
You know the defendant's full name and address for service(Essential)
The claim is brought in England or Wales (jurisdiction)(Essential)