Rise in Enforcement Actions Against Landlords for Repeated Repairs

At SilverOak Solicitors, we are seeing an increasing number of cases where landlords face enforcement action for failing to complete agreed-upon repairs within the required timeframes. Challenges such as labour shortages, supply chain disruptions, and rising costs have compounded the issue, leaving tenants frustrated and homes in unacceptable conditions.

Why Are Landlords Facing Repeated Enforcement Actions?

The Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) is a tool used by local authorities to assess the safety of residential properties. It identifies hazards that could pose a risk to the health or safety of tenants. Landlords are legally required to maintain properties in a condition that meets safety standards, and the HHSRS provides a framework for enforcing this.

What Are Housing Hazards?

Enforcement action occurs when landlords fail to carry out necessary repairs agreed upon in housing disrepair settlements. These settlements typically require landlords to:

• Compensate tenants for damages caused by poor housing conditions.
• Complete specific repairs within an agreed timeframe.

However, social landlords are increasingly struggling to meet these obligations. Labour shortages, contractor availability issues, and delays in obtaining building materials have been exacerbated by the pandemic and inflationary pressures. This has led to a knock-on effect, leaving landlords unable to fulfil repair commitments and prompting tenants’ solicitors to take further legal action.

Sector-Wide Challenges

The wider housing sector is facing significant obstacles, as highlighted by recent figures from the Regulator of Social Housing:

• Investment in major repairs has dropped by 33% across the sector due to rising costs and shortages.
• Inflation has pushed the price of materials, repairs, and maintenance above sustainable levels.
• Proposals for a rent increase cap, aimed at mitigating the cost-of-living crisis, are expected to cost housing associations £1.3 billion annually, further straining resources.

Kate Henderson, Chief Executive of the National Housing Federation, warns that without additional funding, housing associations may need to scale back essential services, potentially worsening the housing disrepair crisis.

The Impact on Tenants

Unresolved housing disrepair can cause significant inconvenience, financial losses, and even health issues for tenants. Common issues include:

• Mould and damp, which can cause respiratory problems.
• Structural damage, creating unsafe living conditions.
• Faulty heating systems, leaving tenants without warmth in winter.
• Pest infestations, threatening health and hygiene.

When landlords fail to address these problems, tenants have the right to take legal action to ensure repairs are completed and compensation is paid for damages.

How SilverOak Solicitors Can Help

If you are living in unsafe or unfit conditions due to housing disrepair, our experienced team at SilverOak Solicitors is here to support you. We operate on a No Win No Fee basis, meaning you only pay if your claim is successful. Our solicitors have years of experience handling housing disrepair claims.

From start to finish, we guide you through every step of the process:

• Initial Assessment: We will evaluate your situation and advise you on the strength of your case.
• Formal Notification: We assist in drafting a formal written notice to your landlord, outlining the disrepair and requesting immediate action.
• Evidence Collection: Our team will help you gather essential evidence, including photographs, correspondence with your landlord, and any medical records if the disrepair has affected your health.
• Legal Action: If your landlord fails to act, we will pursue your claim and ensure necessary repairs are completed.

Get the Compensation You Deserve

Don’t let housing disrepair affect your quality of life. If your landlord has failed to maintain your home, contact SilverOak Solicitors today. We will fight to ensure your property is repaired, your rights are upheld, and you receive the compensation you deserve.

Call us now or fill out our online enquiry form to get started. Let us help you take the first step toward living in a safe, habitable home.