Housing Disrepair Claim Solicitors for Landlords

Our Housing Disrepair Solicitors provide expert defence for landlords against housing disrepair claims after receiving a letter before action. We understand that receiving a letter before action on a housing disrepair claim can be unsettling and stressful for landlords. It’s not just a legal challenge; it’s a situation that can feel deeply personal and potentially threatening to your property investment. The claims can often be expressed in large sums that can feel intimidating and extreme.

Our empathetic approach is rooted in a thorough understanding of the legal framework and the practical implications for landlords, aiming for resolutions that uphold property standards and safeguard landlord interests.

Under the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018, which came into effect on 20th March 2019, landlords must ensure that their properties are safe, healthy and hazard-free.

Since mid-2023 we have seen an increase in this type of claim being asserted, possibly because of an increased awareness among tenants about their rights and what action they can take, alongside rising living costs meaning more landlords are choosing to delay necessary repairs to their properties.

If you’re a landlord seeking expert legal assistance in housing repair defence after receiving a letter before action, our Housing Disrepair Solicitors have the expertise to support you through the process. We provide comprehensive legal services bespoke to the unique challenges faced by landlords.

Please note that our Housing Disrepair Claim Defence Solicitors only defend landlords disputing housing disrepair claims. We do not offer services for tenants making claims against their landlords.

Why Choose Mounteney Solicitors?

While we fully recognise and uphold tenants’ rights to safe and legally compliant living environments, we know that not all claims are valid. Our approach is to support landlords in robustly defending against unfounded claims, aiming to deter vexatious litigation and protect your interests as a landlord. Our expertise and strategic advice are geared towards navigating these challenges effectively, ensuring you are well-prepared to manage any disputes that arise.

The Court has a lengthy protocol that governs the detail of how this sort of claim should be brought and responded to. Our team of expert Landlord Solicitors will help you navigate this protocol to ensure the best possible outcome for your circumstances.

The protocol covers steps like alternative dispute resolution, the tenant’s letter of claim, the landlord’s response and using experts to assess housing conditions. Its primary focus is on reducing litigation by encouraging landlords to address repairs in a timely manner and ensuring that the resolution process remains cost-effective. The aim is to foster a constructive dialogue between landlords and tenants, facilitating an environment where disputes can be resolved amicably.

It’s crucial to act fast when you get a claim letter for housing disrepair. These letters come with deadlines that are easy to miss but extremely important. Delaying your response can make it challenging for us to help you effectively.

Contact us immediately for the best chance for a strong defence.

What are the Legal Obligations on Landlords to Keep their Property in a Good Condition?

At the core of housing disrepair claims is the concept that landlords have a legal obligation to ensure their properties are habitable, safe and free from hazards; the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 and Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 are the primary pieces of legislation underpinning this, along with other statutes, regulations and legal principles such as contract law and negligence. As well as covering housing repair, these authorities also provide for other obligations on landlords, such as annual electrical inspection, annual gas inspection, periodic provision of Energy Performance Certificates over the required minimum standard (currently level “E”), service of the up to date “How to Rent” Guide, and tenancy deposit protection and certification.

These laws establish the landlord’s responsibilities for maintaining the structure and interior of the property, including essential installations concerning water, gas, electricity, sanitation and heating. Dampness, condensation, and ventilation are the normal battle-grounds tenants may elect to fight over.

Our Residential Property Dispute Solicitors know these authorities inside out and can offer expert, accurate advice to enable you to build the best defence possible.

Our Approach to Housing Disrepair Claims

At Mounteney Solicitors, we understand the stress and concern housing disrepair issues can cause landlords. Our team offers more than legal expertise; we provide empathetic support and tailored advice to navigate you through housing disrepair law efficiently and cost-effectively. With us, you’re not just addressing legal challenges; you’re working with a partner dedicated to finding the best resolution with your well-being in mind.

When landlords face a claim, Mounteney Solicitors works hard to keep legal costs low and fight the claim effectively. We focus on protecting landlords’ interests and helping them avoid becoming easy targets for claims in the future. By offering preventative advice and strong defence tactics, we guide landlords through these challenges, aiming to prevent similar issues from arising again.

What are Some Common Grounds for Disrepair Claims?

Tenants may initiate housing disrepair claims for numerous reasons, including but not limited to:

• Inadequate ventilation or heating
• Infestations
• Dampness and mould
• Internal systems (plumbing, heating, electrical wiring)
• Structural issues and external repairs (walls, roof, foundations)
• Failing to carry out repairs when reported

At Mounteney Solicitors, our Housing Disrepair Solicitors are here to provide you with professional and genuine advice. We aim to streamline the process, giving you clarity and support to manage your responsibilities effectively without undue stress.

Advice for Avoiding Housing Disrepair Claims

Navigating the intricate process of housing disrepair claims requires a robust legal strategy and expert guidance. As your dedicated Housing Disrepair Solicitors, Mounteney Solicitors defends landlords who have received letters before action against exaggerated or unfounded claims. With this in mind, you can employ various defence strategies to safeguard the integrity of your property investments.

Regular Property Inspections

Conducting routine inspections will allow you to proactively identify and address repair issues, preventing disrepair claims and demonstrating your commitment to maintaining the property’s habitability.

Maintaining Open Communication with Tenants

Maintaining open and responsive communications with tenants is crucial, encouraging them to report any repair issues promptly and keeping a record of all communications and actions taken to resolve reported problems. Such documentation can serve as evidence to dispute claims of disrepair and negligence.

Adherence to Legal Obligations

You should always comply with all legal obligations concerning property maintenance and repair. Familiarity with relevant regulations and laws is critical to prevent breaches that could lead to disrepair claims.

Professional Legal Advice

Seeking professional legal advice is pivotal, especially when faced with a disrepair claim. Legal experts specialising in landlord and tenant law can offer valuable insights into how to navigate the claim process, defend against unfounded claims and minimise potential

Mounteney Solicitors, an SRA-regulated law firm, charges VAT on its services, which certain clients may be eligible to reclaim.

Our work responding to a tenant disrepair Letter of Claim will be charged a fixed fee of £350 + VAT = £420 gross.

There is more about fees on our website here.

At Mounteney Solicitors, we genuinely understand the challenges landlords face with housing disrepair issues. Our experienced team is here to offer not just legal advice but empathetic support, guiding you through each step to protect your property investments. With us, you find a partnership rooted in care and commitment to your success.

We are a firm of Solicitors in Stockport with years of experience helping a diverse range of clients in and around Bramhall, Cheadle and Heald Green, throughout England and Wales, our legal services are second to none. Our Landlord Solicitors in Stockport & Cheshire deliver effective solutions that guarantee positive assistance with all your landlord and tenancy needs.

Contact us now to discover how we can guide you to the best outcome in your housing disrepair defence. The sooner you reach out to us, the better we can serve you.