Seeking advice from the council - disrepair
What to do if your accommodation suffers from disrepair
Private landlords must make sure the homes they rent to tenants complies with health and safety standards. Any hazards that are identified will be categorised according to how serious a risk they present.
Common hazards:
- dangerous wiring
- a defective boiler
- excessive cold
- leaking roof
- damp and mould
- serious pest infestation
- dangerous stairs and fire risks
Enforcing actions
If a landlord will not take the necessary action, the tenant can ask the council for help. If the council believes that a problem exists it can issue a:
- hazard awareness notice: no action at present, but the tenant should contact the council again if nothing is done or the problem gets worse
- improvement notice: the landlord is instructed to perform repairs or make improvements in order to reduce the risk. Failure to comply can result in a fine or court action
- emergency action: if the tenant is likely to suffer serious harm the council can order the landlord to take emergency action. Alternatively, the council may carry out the works itself and seek a refund from the landlord
- prohibition order: prevents the whole or part of a property being used as a dwelling, or restricts the number of people who can occupy a property
If you feel that items in need of repair are unsafe or damaging your health you should contact the council. An officer will contact you to discuss your concerns, which may result in an inspection of your property. If the inspection reveals the presence of unsafe conditions, the landlord will be notified of appropriate remedial works for which they are responsible. If the landlord fails to carry out the works the council may take enforcement action.
To contact the council's regulatory services:
Email: propertyregulation@ealing.gov.uk