Let’s be honest, finding a decent rental property in Manchester can sometimes feel like winning the lottery. But even if you’ve struck rental gold, housing disrepair can quickly turn your dream home into a nightmare. As a Manchester renter, it’s vital to know your rights and how to fight back when your landlord isn’t keeping up their end of the bargain. We will also highlight how you can start a housing disrepair claim.
Common Disrepair Issues in Manchester
From dripping taps to crumbling ceilings, disrepair can make renting a home frustrating and uncomfortable. In Manchester, renters frequently encounter several recurring issues, including:
1. Damp and Mould:
Manchester’s notoriously damp climate, combined with poor ventilation or insulation, creates a perfect environment for damp and mould to thrive. Beyond being an eyesore, these issues can pose serious health risks, such as respiratory problems.
2. Structural Problems:
Wonky walls, unsafe windows, or faulty roofing aren’t just inconvenient—they can compromise your safety and comfort.
3. Faulty Heating and Hot Water:
Enduring cold showers or freezing nights is no small matter. Landlords are legally required to provide reliable heating and hot water systems.
4. Pest Infestations:
Rodents or insects aren’t just unpleasant; they often signal deeper issues with the property that need urgent attention from your landlord.
5. Electrical Hazards:
Dodgy sockets, flickering lights, or faulty wiring aren’t minor nuisances—they’re significant safety risks that require immediate repair.
Know your rights: The law is on your side
Don’t think you just have to grin and bear it! The Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 and the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 place legal obligations on landlords to keep their properties in good repair and fit for you to live in.
This means your landlord is responsible for fixing most disrepair issues promptly, even if you didn’t directly cause the damage.
Your disrepair battle plan: Step-by-step
Seeing red about that mouldy patch or drafty window? Here’s how to take action:
Document everything:
Take photos and videos of the disrepair, make detailed notes of any conversations with your landlord, and keep copies of emails or letters. This evidence is crucial.
Report it formally:
Write to your landlord (or letting agent), clearly outlining the problems, when they started, and the impact on you. Set a reasonable deadline for repairs. Keep a copy!
Follow up:
If your landlord ignores you or delays, send a reminder escalating your complaint. You could use a template letter found on websites like Shelter or Citizens Advice.
Environmental Health:
If the disrepair poses a serious health risk, contact your local council’s environmental health department. They can inspect and possibly force your landlord to take action.
Take legal action:
As a last resort, you might consider county court action to force repairs and possibly claim compensation. Seek advice from a legal professional specialising in housing disputes.
Receive a Call About Your Claim
It doesn’t have to be a fight: Tips for good communication
While you have rights, sometimes a friendly approach initially gets better results. Try these tips:
- Be clear and specific: Don’t just moan; describe the exact issues in detail.
- Stay polite but firm: A professional tone is more persuasive than rants.
- Offer solutions: Could a temporary fix work while waiting for a permanent one? Showing you’re reasonable helps.
Making a Housing Disrepair Claim with National Claims
At National Claims, we understand that dealing with housing disrepair is a frustrating and potentially hazardous experience. Whether it’s persistent damp, crumbling structures, or faulty utilities, living with disrepair can significantly affect your health and well-being. Our team specialises in helping tenants navigate the claims process and fight to secure the repairs and compensation they deserve.
Free Consultation
Let’s start with a free consultation to discuss the specifics of your disrepair situation. We’ll listen to your experience, assess the issues you’re facing, and provide 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 repairs and fair compensation 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
Manchester renters, don’t let disrepair take a toll on your quality of life. By understanding your rights, staying proactive, and knowing when to seek legal advice, you can hold your landlord accountable. You deserve to live in a home that is safe, comfortable, and well-maintained. Stand up for your rights, take action, and ensure you get the decent living conditions you’re entitled to!
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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