Freeholder says I have changed windows - I haven't!

[LeaseholdBollocks]

I've been having water ingress issues for a while. Things have recently got really bad over the last couple of months. Finally got freeholder to look at it and they've said it's because I've changed the windows. I haven't!

There was also a roofing report done four years ago to address water ingress - they were meant to get quotes and still nothing has materialised.

It is like pulling teeth to get any response on anything from them. Forked out loads to redecorate at end of last year too after it had dried out and got water resistant type panels put in inside to try to stall ongoing damage - all down the drain. Water is now literally pouring in when it rains.

They do none of the maintenance stipulated in the lease. How do I move this forward in the most cost effective way? I also don't have access to the exterior of the property.

If the property is on street view or estate agents details, or even if you have some old photos - you could prove beyond reasonable doubt that you haven’t changed the windows. As for getting the maintenance done, maybe citizens advice or shelter would point you in the right direction? Even the local council (environmental health?) could help?

Thanks. I had a trawl earlier, but can't see any pictures online of before I bought it. I have had it years.

Is it on street view? It looks like quite a lot of the UK has been scanned/photographed multiple time in the past 20 years, that might be an option. The option for past street view shots is usually at the bottom of the page. Our own street has several scams going back to 2009. Or contact your local historical society, they often have phot collections of local areas especially if there is note near you. Failing that, ask in your local area Facebook page- it’s surprising what people can come up with.