Repairs

> Check you tenancy agreement to see who is responsible for what.

> In the eyes of the law you have a contract with your landlord. This maybe a written tenancy agreement or it may simply be that your landlord has ‘verbally contracted’ to let a property to you at an agreed rent.

> If you have a written agreement it will include details of things your landlord expects you to do (such as pay rent and keep the property in good order) as well as things you can expect your landlord to do (such as provide the property). If you are faced with disrepair in your home it is very important that you refer to your agreement to see who is responsible for putting it right, in some cases it will be your responsibility and in others you landlord.

> It is important that you take a friend/resettlement worker/family member to view a property before moving in to see what repairs need to be done. If repairs are needed before moving in, inform your landlord and ask him what action he intends to take to rectify the problems. It would be a good idea to get this in writing.

> Keep a record of who you have reported the repairs to and on what date. It maybe also worth writing to your landlord as well and keeping a copy of the letter for yourself.

> Remember PERSISTENCE WORKS and if the repairs aren’t done go to your local Housing Advice Centre so see what your legal rights are, taking with you copies of letters along with other details of when you have reported repairs.

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