It is our responsibility to keep your council home safe and in a good state of repair.
This includes keeping the building watertight and maintaining installations for sanitation, gas, electricity and water supplies. It also includes us completing repairs that have been reported to us and we are responsible for within a reasonable time.
If we do not do these things, your home could be said to be in ‘disrepair’.
Disrepair claims
Claims management companies often advise tenants to make a ‘disrepair claim’ against us. They usually offer a ‘no win, no fee’ service and promise payouts of several thousand pounds.
There are many risks involved in this process that you should consider if you’re thinking of making a claim.
- Claims can take years to resolve, and you might need to attend court to provide evidence.
- Any compensation you might receive will be reduced to cover your legal fees.
- If your claim is unsuccessful, you might also be liable for the cost of our legal fees.
Any agreement you make with a claims management company can put you at significant financial risk. Costs can include:
- hiring a solicitor to represent you and manage the claim on your behalf
- taking out an insurance policy to cover the cost of the claim
If you change your mind after signing a contract with a solicitor, you could still be liable to pay the cost of any work they have already done.
Contact us if you have any concerns about the condition of your home. The Housing Ombudsman, Citizens Advice or Shelter can also provide help and advice about disrepair claims.
Breach of tenancy
Claims management companies working on behalf of tenants often advise them not to give us access for inspections or to make any necessary repairs. Following this advice would be a breach of your tenancy agreement.
If there is a health and safety risk and you do not allow us to enter your home, we will apply to the court for an injunction to access your home. We will pass any costs associated with this on to you.
