LL won’t fix the windows

[RealBigBarbie]

Someone pls help me out here because everything is a fight with my LL.

There are two windows in the living room. When we moved in, there was one window that opened and closed perfectly and one window that would open, but you couldn’t quite close it. For that reason, I only ever opened the one that could open and close with no issues.

Around a month or so ago, I shut the window before bed and when I went to open it the next day, it wouldn’t open at all. I kept on trying but when I realised that it wasn’t budging, I informed the EA and sent them a video of both windows to show them what the issue was. The EA got back to me and said no problem, they think they know what the issue is and they’ll inform the LL and get permission to fix it.

The LL came back to them and said he’s not fixing the window as HE’S happy that one window can still open to bring in ventilation. But that window can’t shut and it’s absolutely freezing some nights. Where do I stand here? Does he have to fix both windows? Should I just pay for someone to fix them myself?

I’m sure this is irrelevant but I think it’s absured that he’s increased the rent by £270 and won’t even fix the bloody windows! What the heck am I paying nearly £1500 for then?!

What a crap LL.

Keep fighting it and try to get the EA to acknowledge it's not acceptable in very cold weather to have a window that won't shut.

@Twiglets1 thank you for your response. I try not to be problematic as I feel like the LL will use it against me to get us out but it’s absolutely ridiculous.

I’m going to go back to them and ask them to contact the LL once again as it’s too cold to have a window which can’t close!

You’re being completely reasonable

You are not being unreasonable and its the landlord's responsibility. However, usually its just a hinge or similar and an inexpensive fix so I'd seriously consider just getting it done anyway.

I did consider this but where does it end?

I’ve already replaced the toilet seat, shower head and hose. I’ve replaced the bed because the LL refused too despite the fact that it was VERY broken and I spent £350 on mice proofing as there was a massive hole in the wall in the kitchen.

He doesn’t do anything and I have two toddlers that both have disabilities. I can’t keep on fixing things that he’s responsible for as all of these costs seriously add up

could you look into moving? It doesn’t sound like it’s going to improve

If you post on legal matters there may be a procedure to get these things paid for.
Eg you write to say the issue, then write again to say you'll get it done on x date and send an invoice. Then write again to say 14 days to pay before small claims, then small claims action.
I'm not sure you can set it off against the rent but there may be a way to do that instead.

You tell him that he carries out repairs to keep his property investment in good order or you will go to the environmental health department at your local council and if he doesn't take action then they will use their enforcement powers and potentially fine him .

Thank you for the responses guys.

The short answer is no, we can’t move. I do wish we had the flexibility too as despite me loving the flat and the location, the LL really does put a damper on things due to his tightness.

What I’ll do is send them an email tomorrow morning stating that the windows really do need to be fixed. I’m scared of rocking the boat as I don’t want to be homeless again (especially with two toddlers) but this is really unfair. Thank you for letting me know that I’m not being unreasonable with this

Landlords are cunts.🔥 🔥 🔥

Windows that do not close could violate his landlord insurance. Suggest that.

I’ve sent an email to the EA just now so we’ll see what they come back with. The manager is very reasonable but it’s the LL who’s an arse and they can’t do anything without his permission so we’ll see!

@MadeForThis that’s really interesting to know as I had no clue. He either needs to fix the window that won’t open or fix the window that won’t close. It’s not rocket science!

I just received an email to say that this has now been passed on to the senior property manager who will be the one speaking with the LL. At least the EA is taking it seriously🤞

Surely if the window won't close that could be a security issue, and therefore a breach of contract? I don't think the LL has a leg to stand on, he needs to get them both fixed!

I’ve just had an email from the EA. I can’t believe this.

The LL has said that he’s not in a position to get this repaired because he’s under the impression that I have broken this myself. The senior property manager has said to me that she’s expressed to the LL that it is his responsibility to make sure that the windows/handles are working at all times. Apparently, the LL will get back in touch with them next week.

The EA have said that they’ll send a contractor around to investigate the windows to determine whether the handle has been broken due to wear or tear or not. This LL is REALLY something else. Accusing me of breaking the windows when 1) the window that can’t close has been like that since we moved in and 2) he has a fucking nerve.

Every single thing has to be a fight

Just keep fighting.

@MadeForThis thank you for your comments on the thread, I certainly will. I was going to try my best to renew the tenancy next summer but I’ve decided against that now. The LL will just have to evict us and we’ll have to go back to being homeless with the council😕

https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/housing/repairs-in-rented-housing/repairs-what-are-your-options-if-you-are-a-social-housing-tenant/using-the-right-to-repair-scheme/

Have a look at the link above and see if you'd qualify.

@FartSock5000 thank you for the link but I private rent (not in social housing) so it doesn’t apply to me unfortunately