Associate
- Joined
- 27 Jun 2007
- Posts
- 1,777
Firstly, write a letter to letting agents asking for a reply in writing explaining the situation so you get a proper response in writing. Refer to the tenancy agreement in terms of damage to the property and it being the landlords responsibility to resolve and also any other comments you have received from CAB. If you do have a 'builder friend' call them out to assess the room and get them to write you a letter explaining what the problem is (again you have this on paper). Then write a letter saying you would either like to move out or you are not going to pay any rent for this period as he is in breach of contract. It is not acceptable to live in these conditions and that you are voiding the notice period if you chose to move out. Take landlord to small claims court to settle outstanding deposit/monies if appropriate. At this stage you have an independent body who has assessed the living conditions, you have the poor response from the the letting agents and you have your refusal to pay for any rent at this stage all down on paper. If you do have to go to a small claims court to get your deposit back it will be a much clearer case rather than several phone calls. Also, take photographic evidence of damp marks/damage etc. Unless the landlord/letting agents have sent an outside building company to your address, they are not in a position to assess what is required.