Housing Disrepair – landlord’s responsibilities
Under section 11 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, landlords have a statutory duty to maintain various aspects of the property, including:
- Exterior and structural elements such as pipes, walls, roof, drains, windows, and doors.
- Utility fixtures like heaters, boilers, gas meters, water and gas pipes, tanks, and electrical wiring.
- Basins, sinks, toilets, and their associated pipes.
Landlords cannot evade these responsibilities, even if the tenancy agreement suggests otherwise. They must handle repairs promptly and at their own expense, considering the severity of the issue. Tenants should be aware of any clauses in the tenancy agreement regarding the landlord’s responsibility for faulty appliances. Health and safety obligations encompass addressing issues like mould, damp, pests, gas and fire safety. Your Landlord must promptly addressed by the landlord. For tenancies starting after January 15, 1989, these responsibilities extend to common areas like entrance halls, stairs, and lifts. If a social landlord ignores complaints, tenants can take action by:
- Initiating a formal discussion with the landlord, documenting all communication.
- Sending a formal complaint letter to the landlord, detailing the issues and expected actions.
- Contacting the council, outlining the problems and attempts to resolve them with the landlord.
Our service: NO WIN NO FEE
If cracks, damp, mould, or leaks in your rented property cause suffering, exacerbate health issues, or damage the property, you may be entitled to compensation. Our specialist solicitor will guide you through the claim process and advise you on potential out-of-pocket expenses, including:
- General damages
- Travel Expenses
- Medical expenses that are not covered by the NHS
- Loss of earnings
- Loss of anticipated earnings
- Care claim