Housing Disrepair in Newcastle:Know Your Rights & Report Issues

13 Aug

Written By Food & Solidarity

Housing Disrepair in Newcastle

Know Your Rights & Report Issues

Your Housing Rights

Landlord Responsibilities

Under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, your landlord must*:

Keep the property structure and exterior in repair
Maintain water, gas, and electrical systems
Ensure heating and hot water installations work
Address damp issues within a reasonable timeframe
*There are other laws regarding how landlords must act!

Common Issues in Newcastle

We regularly see tenants facing these problems:

Damp & mould - Especially in older Tyneside flats and Council properties
Structural issues - Cracks, leaks and roofing problems
Faulty heating systems - Critical during winters in Newcastle
Electrical hazards - Outdated wiring in many properties
Plumbing failures - Burst pipes and water damage
Need Advice?- full list of the ladlords responsibilities are here, we TAKE action not advise

Steps to Take

If your landlord isn't addressing issues:

Document everything with photos and dates
Report issues formally via registered mail
Contact Newcastle Council's Environmental Health team
Get support from a tenant organisation such as Food & Solidarity

Success Stories!

Last year we helped a family in Arthur's Hill (they didn't want to be identified) with severe damp making their children ill. After documenting the issue, threaterning direct action, and organising neighbours. The Landlord:

Arranged temporary accommodation
Completed repairs within weeks
Compensation for lost possessions

Just one of the in excess of 25 cases we've won over the years.

Report Housing Disrepair

Complete this form to report issues and get assistance

Your information is secure and will only be used to assist with your housing issue.

Food & Solidarity