Dealing With Housing Disrepair When The Cold Draws In
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With the temperatures plummeting during the festive season, issues with your housing that you previously were unaware of may become more of a danger to you and your family. Here at AWH, we want to ensure that everyone who is entitled to support with their housing disrepair gets what they deserve. No one should feel that they are living in an unsafe environment.
What are the most common seasonal issues that could affect homes?
Excess Cold
You should always have access to a good supply of hot water and heating as standard. Excess cold can be incredibly dangerous and, in some cases, fatal to those who are more vulnerable. Cold temperatures can aggravate conditions such as pneumonia, flu and bronchitis. They can also increase the risk of cardiovascular conditions such as strokes and heart attacks.
Fire Hazards
When the temperature drops, it is understandable that stoves and other gas-burning appliances may be being used. It should be ensured that these are safe to use.
Damp and Mould Growth
Damp and mould can be incredibly hazardous to the health of anyone living inside an affected property. Damp inside a property can lead to mould forming on furniture and walls, and can also cause wooden window frames to rot.
Some damp may be caused by condensation. This appears as a cluster of small black dots. Dampness can also encourage the growth of mould and dust mites. These can then trigger a range of health conditions. These could be allergies or asthma, or sometimes more serious respiratory problems.
Carbon Monoxide Build-Up
With heating being turned up, the fire being on and cooking more often, there is therefore a greater risk of carbon monoxide building up. All carbon monoxide detectors should be regularly checked.
What is Defined as Housing Disrepair?
Housing disrepair generally refers to a rented property that is in need of repair for it to be legally declared habitable. If you a tenant who is living in rented accommodation, then your landlord is required by law to ensure that:
- The house you live in is structurally sound – there are no loose tiles or issues with brickwork
- Your house is free from damp and from mould
- You have a working heating system
- Your house is free from vermin or insect infestation
- You have working sanitation facilities
- You have safe and reliable access to electricity, gas and water
If you have reported any of these issues to your landlord and they do not deal with them within a reasonable amount of time, then this could be classed as housing disrepair. Our specialists can help you to get exactly what you need when you have been mistreated by your landlord.
With the weather having more and more of an impact in recent times, we understand how important it is for you to feel that your home is a safe haven for you and your family to return to. If you have any issues with housing disrepair, then get in touch with our housing disrepair solicitors today to find out how we can help you.
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