Private Landlord Claims
We are here for you if you are a private tenant with housing disrepair
Take our free quiz to find out if you have a claim or book a call with our friendly Housing Disrepair Team
Yes, we do help Private Tenants
But we do understand that it's not an easy decision.
Are you are a private tenant living with housing disrepair?
Are you are scared you might not get your deposit back?
Are you frightened about asking for help in case your landlord evicts you?
Are you at breaking point and just can't take it anymore?
What you need to do
The first step is to contact us. We won't do anything or contact your landlord without your consent. We will discuss your options with you and if we can help we will, but a housing disrepair claim might not be the right option and we will advise you accordingly.
Get Started Today
If you are a private tenant and would like to discuss your housing issues with us, please give us a call or book a call at a time to suit you!
STILL NOT SURE?
Frequently Asked Questions
We hope this information is useful, but please contact us if you have any other questions
Can my landlord evict me if I start a claim?
The short answer unfortunately is still yes. Whilst there are some changes to the law coming which means landlords will not be able to evict you if you're not at fault, those changes still have yet to come into force and landlords can and will still evict as a means of retalliation.
How much will it cost me to claim?
We help private tenants on the same basis as council and housing association tenants - no win no fee. This means you do not pay anything up front and only pay for our services when your claim is successful.
What can I claim for?
You can claim compensation for living in a property that is in disrepair, along with any damages for personal items that have been damaged and any injury to your health due to the disrepair.
How much compensation will I receive?
The main focus of a housing disrepair claim is to get your property repaired to the highest possible standards (not your landlord's standard). Compensation depends on the severity of the disrepair and how long you have been complaining about it. It varies on a case by case basis.
What do I need in order to make a claim?
You need to have informed your landlord of the disrepair and given them a reasonable amount of time to make those repairs. If they are ignoring you or refusing to repair then providing you still live in the property and can prove that you have notified the landlord then you can make a claim.
I am in arrears, does this make a difference?
Yes, it can make a difference to your claim. If you are not paying rent (even if you believe that withholding rent is fair due to the poor state of your property) you are in breach of your tenancy agreement and your landlord can evict you.
Is It Acceptable to Use Toilet Paper to Test an Extractor Fan?
When it comes to assessing the functionality of extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms, relying on a piece of toilet paper is not only inadequate but also unprofessional, especially in an expert witness report submitted to the court.
Understanding Extractor Fans
Extractor fans play a crucial role in maintaining indoor air quality. They are designed to draw moisture-laden air out of rooms, venting it outdoors. This process helps eliminate cooking odors, reduces humidity levels, and prevents the onset of condensation-related dampness and mold. If these fans malfunction, they can be a contributing factor to moisture problems within a property, making their effectiveness a vital consideration in any dampness diagnosis.
The Limitations of the Tissue Test
A common practice among some surveyors is to hold a piece of tissue paper against the extractor fan to see if it adheres. This method, however, only demonstrates that there is some airflow. It does not provide a reliable measure of the fan’s efficiency or extraction capability.
The recommended minimum extraction rates for bathroom fans are 15 liters per second, while fans located away from cooking appliances should achieve a minimum of 60 liters per second. If the fan is positioned over a cooking appliance, a rate of 30 liters per second is acceptable. These thresholds are essential for preventing the buildup of moisture that can lead to condensation.
Accurate Measurement with Anemometers
To accurately assess the performance of an extractor fan, professionals use an anemometer. This instrument measures the actual airflow rate, providing precise data on whether the fan is operating effectively. It's important to note that extractor fans can become obstructed by debris or may wear down over time, compromising their functionality.
Relying on a piece of tissue paper does not yield meaningful results and can lead to misleading conclusions. Additionally, different brands of toilet paper come with varying weights and qualities, which could skew results—a phenomenon humorously referred to as the "Cushelle factor."
The Importance of Reliable Evidence
For experts in housing condition claims, providing accurate and reliable evidence is paramount. The use of proper testing methods not only supports professional integrity but also ensures that findings are robust and defensible in legal contexts.
In summary, while the tissue paper test may seem like a simple and quick method, it falls short in providing the necessary validation of an extractor fan's performance. For credible assessments, employing the right tools and methodologies is essential in the realm of housing disrepair expertise.
Testing extractor fan with an anemometer
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