If you are facing unfair treatment by your housing association in Manchester, you are not alone. Many tenants experience issues such as poor living conditions, ignored repair requests, and even illegal evictions. However, you have rights as a tenant, and it is important to understand them so that you can take action. In this article, we will explain your legal rights, how to challenge unfair treatment, and how you may be able to claim compensation.
Understanding Your Tenant Rights in the UK
The law protects tenants from unfair treatment by housing associations and landlords. Some key legal protections include:
- Right to a Safe and Habitable Home – Under the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018, your landlord must ensure that your home is safe, free from hazards, and in a good state of repair.
- Right to Repairs – Housing associations must carry out necessary repairs within a reasonable time. If they fail to do so, you can take action.
- Protection Against Illegal Evictions – Your landlord cannot evict you without following the proper legal process. If they try to remove you without a court order, this is illegal.
- Protection from Harassment – If your housing association is threatening you, refusing to carry out repairs, or interfering with your rights, you may be a victim of harassment, which is unlawful.
If your housing association is failing to uphold these responsibilities, you can take steps to hold them accountable.
Common Issues Faced by Tenants in Manchester
Tenants across Manchester have reported various issues with their housing associations. Some of the most common problems include:
1. Failure to Carry Out Repairs
Many tenants suffer from damp, mould, leaks, and faulty heating systems. These problems can lead to serious health risks, including respiratory conditions and infections. If your housing association is refusing to fix these problems, they are failing in their legal duty.
2. Unfair Service Charges
Some tenants are charged excessive fees for maintenance or services that are not being provided. If you believe you are being overcharged, you have the right to challenge these fees.
3. Discrimination and Harassment
Unfortunately, some tenants experience discrimination based on their race, gender, disability, or other protected characteristics. If you are being treated unfairly, you can take legal action under the Equality Act 2010.
4. Illegal Evictions
If your housing association is attempting to remove you from your home without following the legal eviction process, this is illegal. You have the right to challenge an unfair eviction in court.
Steps to Take if You Are Being Treated Unfairly
If you believe your housing association is treating you unfairly, you can take the following steps:
1. Gather Evidence
Keep records of all communication, including emails, letters, and photos of any disrepair. This evidence will be useful if you need to take legal action.
2. Make a Formal Complaint
Before taking legal action, you should first raise a formal complaint with your housing association. You can usually find their complaints procedure on their website.
3. Contact the Housing Ombudsman
If your housing association does not resolve the issue, you can escalate your complaint to the Housing Ombudsman. They investigate complaints and may be able to force your landlord to take action.
4. Seek Legal Advice
If the issue persists, you may be entitled to compensation. National Claims can help you connect with experienced solicitors who specialise in housing disrepair and tenant rights claims.
How Much Compensation Can You Claim?
The amount of compensation you can claim depends on the severity of the issue and how it has affected you. Factors that affect compensation include:
- The severity of the disrepair – More serious issues like damp, mould, or structural problems can lead to higher compensation amounts.
- How long the issue has been ongoing – If your housing association has ignored the problem for months or years, your compensation claim may be higher.
- Health problems caused by the issue – If the disrepair has affected your physical or mental health, you may be entitled to additional compensation.
- Financial loss – If you have had to pay extra for heating due to a faulty boiler or have suffered other financial losses, these may be included in your claim.
On average, compensation for housing disrepair claims ranges from £1000 to over £10,000, depending on the severity of the case.
How National Claims Can Help
If you believe you have been treated unfairly by your Manchester housing association, National Claims is here to help. We can connect you with experienced solicitors who will guide you through the claims process and help you get the compensation you deserve.
Taking action against a housing association can feel overwhelming, but you do not have to face it alone. Our team is here to support you every step of the way.
Final Thoughts
Unfair treatment by a housing association can be distressing, but you have legal rights and options. Whether you are facing housing disrepair, unfair service charges, or an illegal eviction, it is important to stand up for your rights.
If your housing association has failed in their duties, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact National Claims today to find out how we can help you take action and get the justice you deserve.
Don’t suffer in silence—know your rights and take action today!
Contact National Claims today, and we will put you in touch with an expert solicitor who can guide you through the claims process.📞 Call us now free 0800 029 3849 or 📩 Submit an online enquiry to speak to our team. Your safety and well-being matter, and we’re here to help.
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