The rental market is expanding and improving, but sadly, not all landlords genuinely care about the well-being of tenants. Sometimes obvious disrepairs causing inconvenience, damage to tenants’ personal belongings or even security and health issues are ignored. If you or your loved ones are in such an unenviable situation, there’s a possibility to take legal action against negligent landlords. Here’re three commonly asked questions regarding housing disrepair claims.
What Steps Should I Take If I Believe I Have a Housing Disrepair Claim?
In most instances, landlords are obliged to maintain the property to a satisfactory standard. Therefore, legal experts encourage you to start with a conversation. Contact the landlord promptly and address the main issues in a well-reasoned manner. It’s best to contact the responsible person in writing (e.g., via email) with related proof of any defects detrimental to your health, the security of your home, etc.
If a landlord is negligent or tries to avoid responsibilities stated in the rental agreement, it might be best to contact lawyers specialising in property litigation. That would be the first step, and then you can objectively assess your situation and possibilities and decide on the best course of action. If there’s a chance of a successful claim, a lawyer could provide further steps and advice on collecting evidence, reporting problems to the institutions concerned, communicating with the landlord, etc.
What Types of Issues Can I Address in a Housing Disrepair Claim?
Any form of disrepair can be relevant as long as there’s someone else responsible for the ongoing condition and its impact on your poor living conditions, health and security issues, in general – the enjoyment of the property. Still, solicitors specialising in housing disrepair claims notice that they typically include problems such as:
- Dampness and mould
- Leaking roofs or pipes
- Faulty heating systems
- Electrical problems
- Failure to supply clean water
- Structural defects and insufficient insulation
- Infestation with vermin
These are common issues, but this list is definitely wider than the abovementioned points. Again, whatever the problem bothers, it’s wise to seek legal advice and, if needed, assistance.
What Outcomes and Amount of Compensation Can I Expect?
As with any other compensation claims, the outcome and amount of the compensation depend on an individual case and circumstances. Mostly, in case of a successful claim, outcome and compensation are considered assessing the nature of the disrepair, damage and amount of time tenants have been experiencing addressed inconveniences.
Still, claimants should remember that the outcome can vary – the landlord may agree to carry out necessary repairs in the agreed timeframe, or tenants may receive compensation to cover the costs of the repairs and damaged belongings (also – inconveniences and stress). Solutions vary depending on individual situations, rental agreements, ability to look for compromise, etc.
As so many factors affect the case success, legal processes and outcome, it’s best to consult the complex situations with solicitors specialising in housing disrepair claims. In the meantime, experts remind everyone looking for rental accommodation – carefully read and assess rental agreements and the part that clarifies what is and isn’t the landlord’s responsibility.
If you want to know more about housing disrepair claims or consult a lawyer, you can find more details by visiting the Litkraft Solicitors website – here, property litigation experts based in London (адвокат в лондон) and Sheffield shares valuable information and their contacts for consultation.
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