Hoping for some advice.
About 6 weeks ago, a water pipe blew in storage cupboard in my flat at about midnight. I only noticed before going to bed because the electrics shorted out (fuse box right next to the pipe and water going into it).
It was quite a strong flow of water (think shower, but not power shower) which was spraying so couldn't be contained. I did try shutting the water off, but was not tall enough/strong enough to do so - then backed away because getting soaking wet next to the fuse box seemed very stupid!
I called the letting agents' emergency line, which is supposed to go to voicemail. It didn't, and no one answered, so I immediately called an emergency plumber and paid upfront. Because electrics were involved, two men came out to make the flat safe, clean up water etc. They didn't have the broken part to fix the pipe. Cost about 450 quid, which is loads, but I didn't think leaving the place to flood was a reasonable alternative. I didn't shop around - I should've to protect myself, but I was very panicky (embarrassingly cried down the phone to the plumber) and just wanted someone to come ASAP.
I called the letting agent when they opened to tell them what had happened, and they left me without water for 36 hours while arranging for a cheaper plumber to fix the pipe.
I've been chasing ever since for repayment. My position is that it was an emergency, and that as my tenancy agreement states the exception that tenants can make arrangements for repairs in that situation, it's unreasonable not to reimburse me.
The landlord has apparently offered me 50% of the total as he's unhappy that the emergency plumber didn't fix it there and then, which seems pretty ridiculous given I had to send the contractor plumber info about the part they would need!
I wonder if the letting agent hasn't mentioned to the landlord the fact that their emergency line wasn't fit for purpose.
Not sure whether to accept the 50% or take it further. I am so upset to be treated like this - wish I had just left their floor to get damaged! 