Living in Bournemouth should be a pleasure. As a tenant, you deserve a safe and healthy home. Housing disrepair can disrupt that enjoyment and impact your well-being. This guide empowers you, the Bournemouth tenant, with knowledge of your rights and the steps to take if your rented property falls into disrepair. We will also highlight how you can start a housing disrepair claim.
Understanding Housing Disrepair
Housing disrepair refers to any condition in your rented property that renders it unfit for human habitation. This includes issues that compromise safety, health, and security. Some common examples include:
- Damp and mould: These can trigger respiratory problems and allergies.
- Leaking roofs: These create damp, structural damage, and potential electrical hazards.
- Faulty heating: This can be dangerous and make your home uncomfortably cold in winter.
- Broken windows and doors: These compromise security and insulation.
- Electrical problems: These pose a serious fire risk.
Your Rights and Responsibilities
The law in England and Wales is clear: landlords have a duty to ensure their properties are fit for human habitation. This is outlined in the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018.
Here’s what this means for you as a tenant:
- Right to a safe and healthy home: Landlords must maintain the property to a reasonable standard, ensuring it’s free from hazards and promotes good health.
- Repairs must be carried out: If you report disrepair, your landlord has a legal obligation to address it within a reasonable timeframe.
- Enjoyment of your home: Disrepair can disrupt your peaceful enjoyment of your property. The law protects your right to live comfortably without unnecessary disruption.
As a tenant, you also have responsibilities:
- Reporting disrepair: You must promptly notify your landlord of any issues in writing, keeping a copy for your records.
- Providing reasonable access: You must allow the landlord access to carry out repairs at reasonable times.
- Maintaining the property: You are responsible for keeping the property clean and using it in a tenant-like manner.
The Process of Dealing with Disrepair
- Reporting the Issue:
The first step is to report the disrepair to your landlord in writing. This can be done via email, letter, or by using a repair reporting system offered by your landlord. Clearly describe the problem, including the date it was first noticed and any potential health and safety risks. Attach photos if possible.
- Following Up:
Keep a copy of your report and any further communication with your landlord. If your landlord fails to respond or take action within a reasonable timeframe (usually 21 days for urgent repairs), you have options:
- Contact your local council: They can inspect the property and may enforce repairs through a Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS).
- Take legal action: Citizens Advice or a solicitor can advise you on your legal rights and potential claims against your landlord.
- Compensation:
If your disrepair has caused you inconvenience, illness, or damage to your belongings, you may be entitled to compensation from your landlord. Citizens Advice or a solicitor can advise you on making a claim.
Receive a Call About Your Claim
Additional Resources
- Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council Housing Advice.
- Citizens Advice
- Shelter.
By understanding your rights and taking action, you can ensure your Bournemouth rental property is a safe and healthy place to call home.
Making a Housing Disrepair Claim with National Claims
At National Claims, we understand that housing disrepair is not merely an inconvenience – it can pose serious risks to your health and well-being, especially in the context of busy rental markets. If you are a tenant facing issues like damp, mould, structural damage, or faulty utilities, we’re here to help connect you with a solicitor from our panel who will be able to assist you with your case.
Free Consultation
Let’s start with a free consultation to discuss the specifics of your case. We’ll listen carefully to your experience and assess the extent of the disrepair in your property. This allows us to give you initial advice on whether you have a strong claim.
*No Win, No Fee
National Claims believes that access to justice shouldn’t be limited by financial worry. For this reason, we operate on a “No Win, No Fee” basis.* You won’t pay any upfront legal fees. Our fees are dependent on whether your claim is successful, allowing you to pursue your case without undue financial stress.
*Customers pay up to 25% (incl. VAT) of the amount recovered towards solicitor costs and if you cancel outside your cooling off period, you may be charged a fee.
Conclusion
Housing disrepair is a serious issue that shouldn’t be taken lightly. As a Bournemouth tenant, knowing your rights empowers you to advocate for the safe and comfortable home you deserve. Don’t hesitate to report disrepair promptly and escalate the situation if your landlord is unresponsive. Remember, you have resources at your disposal, from your local council to organizations like Citizens Advice and Shelter. If you have suffered an injury or illness due to housing disrepair, reach out to National Claims and we will help connect you with a solicitor who can guide you through the compensation claim process. By taking proactive steps, you’ll help to maintain a healthy living environment and hold your landlord accountable.
Contact us today to speak to one of our claims agents who will be able to help you get started on your claim.
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