Housing law FAQ
What are my landlord’s obligations towards repairs?
Every landlord must ensure that rented properties are kept in an adequate state of repair and maintained.
This includes, for example, but is not limited to:
- Keeping the structure of the building in good repair, including: guttering, drains and external pipes, the roof, exterior wall, windows and doors.
- Ensuring that there is a source of heating and hot water and that any central heating or other systems are maintained and functioning properly.
What can I do if my landlord does not carry out repairs?
Upon noticing disrepair within your home you should immediately notify your landlord, who is under a duty to carry out the repairs within a reasonable amount of time. If your landlord fails to do so Court proceedings can be commenced to seek an Order compelling your landlord to complete the required repairs. You may also receive compensation for the inconvience you have suffered as a result of your landlord’s failure. In some instances repairs can also affect your health and in these circumstances you may have a claim for personal injury against your landlord.
We hold a franchise with the Legal Services Commission and Public Funding may be available to fund your claim.
You may also wish to contact your Local Council’s Environmental Health Department who will carry out an inspection if the condition of the property
My landlord has threatened to evict me, what can I do?
Your landlord must follow certain procedures if they wish to evict you and therefore landlords cannot simply evict tenants without following this procedure, which involves obtaining an Order from the Court and then a bailiff’s eviction date. Further, your landlord can only evict you in certain circumstances depending upon your Tenancy Agreement.
If your landlord harasses or threatens you, you are entitled to inform the police. We offer public funding depending upon your circumstances to assist you and may be able to represent you at court or even prevent your eviction. We can take steps to prevent landlords threatening you and also pursue claims if you believe you may have been evicted from your property unlawfully.
I am homeless what can I do?
Your Local Council has a legal duty to assist or even accommodate you if you have been made homeless, or are likely to become homeless within 28 days. Whether or not the local council has to provide you with somewhere to stay will depend on a number of factors, including whether you are homeless through no fault of your own or you are vulnerable.
Can I get help with funding?
Public Funding is available to help with housing problems and whether you will receive funding depends upon the nature of your case and your financial circumstances.
If you are not entitled to Public Funding we may still be able to help you through alternative funding arrangements.
