Whether you live in a private home or a public building, if your home isn’t properly maintained, you can pursue a claim for compensation. However, you may not get any compensation at all. Depending on the nature of the disrepair, you may be able to sue your landlord for damages, or you may be able to obtain legal aid to back up your claim.
You can sue your landlord for disrepair
Depending on the nature of the housing disrepair, you may be able to sue your landlord for damages. These damages may include the difference in the rent you pay and the value of your rental unit. You may also be able to sue for emotional distress that has been caused by the housing disrepair.
The amount of money you can claim is dependent on the nature of the disrepair and the number of months you have been living in the rental unit. For example, if you have lived in the property for five months, you could claim damages worth the difference between the rent and the value of the rental unit.
Depending on the nature of the repairs, the landlord may be required to make repairs within a certain time frame. For example, if the repairs are urgent, the landlord may be required to make them within 24 hours. For less urgent repairs, the landlord may be required to make the repairs within a week.
You can get compensation for no heating or hot water in your home
Getting compensation for no heating or hot water in your home may seem counterintuitive. But the law is on your side. Your landlord has a responsibility to provide you with basic utilities like heat and water. If they are not, you can sue your landlord for a breach of contract. Moreover, the Environmental Health Department can enforce your landlord’s responsibilities.
While there are no hard and fast rules, you can expect your landlord to repair the heating or hot water within a reasonable time frame. In fact, it is probably a good idea to enlist the help of a building superintendent. You should not be left without heat or hot water for longer than a couple of days.
One way to tell if your landlord is on the ball is to see if they’re making the obvious suggestions. If the heating isn’t working, ask the landlord for an estimate of how long it will take for repairs to be made. You’ll want to know this information in advance so you can plan accordingly.
You can back your claim with legal aid
Taking your landlord to court can be an expensive and time-consuming exercise. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to minimise the risks.
The best way to start is to contact your landlord immediately and ask them to fix the problem. If you’re satisfied that they’ve done their best to make improvements, you may then choose to proceed with your claim. If you aren’t sure which route to take, seek legal advice.
The court system has three main routes, including small claims court, multi-track and fast track. You can also hira a ‘no win no fee solicitor. There’s a lot to be gained from having a reputable expert on your side.
The Disrepair protocol has been put in place to encourage disputants to settle their differences without having to resort to court. Specifically, the protocol lists a number of timetables and recommended methods of dispute resolution. Taking your landlord to court should be your last resort.
You may not be able to get any compensation at all
Taking compensation for housing repair is a viable option for tenants who have been affected by a problem with their rented property. However, it is not always easy to find out if you can get compensation for disruptions caused by your landlord. It is important to keep records of your rent deductions and to contact a housing solicitor for legal advice.
When you need to make repairs, you have to notify your landlord in writing. You should include your name, address, and the date of your request. You also need to explain the problem you are experiencing. The condition of your rented property can affect your physical and mental health. It can also lead to loss of income.
There are some qualified repairs for which you can receive compensation, such as unsafe electrical fittings or insecure doors. You should keep receipts of any repairs you make, and get bids for the work. Depending on the problem, you may be able to get a reduction in rent for the repairs.
