Q&A: Five minutes with Kathryn Cooling, associate in the property disputes team at RWK Goodman

How did you join the property industry?

I came out of university with a law degree but no training contract, so I moved back home and secured some paralegal roles before eventually landing a claims-handling role at a law firm dealing with subrogated property insurance recoveries. That was my introduction to property litigation. I decided to stay in the area, expanding my knowledge and expertise.

What does your job entail?

I deal with a wide variety of property-related matters and disputes. My work varies from neighbourly disputes, adverse possession applications and commercial landlord and tenant matters. While my role is a property litigator, it is a long way from being in court all the time. I negotiate deals, mediate settlements and advise clients when they are dealing with their properties to avoid risks.

What do you like most about the property industry?

The property industry is always keeping me on my toes. It is such a vital part of our lives and our society that I feel lucky I get to play a role in the industry. I love being part of communities such as Women in Property, in which I am a member of the Bath committee.

And what do you dislike most about it?

It has been very challenging since Covid-19. I have seen how changes in property law have caused such huge divides between people. There is so much confusion and uncertainty about the future for the industry. This seems to be growing the divide, which is a great pity. More needs to be done to encourage collaboration between certain parties, such as landlords and tenants.

What would you change about the property industry?

The industry still seems to be a long way from recovering after Covid-19. We need a clear vision of where the property industry is heading so that people can regain some confidence.

What barriers or challenges have you overcome?

It has been difficult, costly and stressful to get where I am now, but I was very lucky with the opportunities I received. I feel as though I have certainly been in the right place at the right time for most of my career.

What are you most proud of in your career?

The hard-won successes I have had for my clients. Some wait several years to get a resolution to their cases. The relief and happiness when it finally happens is great to share in.

What do you value in people?

Someone who is willing to have an open and honest conversation. It is key to recognise our own limitations and discuss them so that we can learn from others around us.

What advice would you give someone starting a career in the property industry?

Grasp hold of all the opportunities that come your way. Remember there is value in every task you might get asked to do because it is all experience, however mundane it seems.