Housing Conditions Claims Explained
Living in a home that's not properly taken care of can really get you down. In England and Wales, landlords have a responsibility to make sure the places they rent out are safe and properly maintained for their tenants. But, sadly, many people in council or housing association homes end up in places that need some serious TLC, putting their safety and well-being at risk.
If you're renting from the council or a housing association and your home is falling apart, you might be able to make a claim if:
1. Your home is in a sorry state of disrepair.
2. You've complained to the council or housing association about the issues.
3. Your landlord hasn't fixed things up within a reasonable time.
If this sounds like your situation, Sparrowhawk Legal is here to help you get the repairs you need.
So, what exactly should your landlord be taking care of? According to the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, your landlord should:
- Make sure the property is safe from fires.
- Keep things like gas, electricity, water, and sanitation working properly.
- Sort out any mould or damp problems.
- Maintain the roof, structure, and exterior of the property.
- Provide secure windows and doors.
- Fix any broken central heating or wiring.
Your home should also meet the standards set by The Homes (Fitness for Habitation) Act, meaning it should be fit for you to live in without dampness and with good ventilation.
When landlords don't do their part in maintaining the property, tenants like you can make housing disrepair claims for issues like:
- Damp and mould
- Gas and water leaks
- Broken heating systems
- Damaged doors, windows, fences, or gates
- Unwanted visitors like pests
- Blocked or broken drains and gutters
- Broken toilets and sinks
If your landlord doesn't sort things out in good time, you have the right to claim against them or the responsible authority for:
- Rent for the time your place was in bad shape.
- Compensation for damaged personal belongings.
- Reimbursement for any personal injuries caused by the disrepair.
- Money for the inconvenience and stress you've faced.
To back up your claim, gather evidence like:
- Records of your complaints to the landlord.
- Photos of the issues in your home.
- Details of damaged items and their costs to replace.
When you get in touch with us, we'll figure out who's at fault and start the claim process on your behalf. Our aim is to get you the compensation you deserve quickly and efficiently.
If you're dealing with housing disrepair problems, know your rights as a tenant and take steps to improve your living conditions. Don't hesitate to ask for legal help to make sure your home is safe and comfortable for you.
