MORE renters than ever before will be able to take their landlords to court over problems including cold and damp homes from next month.
Around 1.4 million people are currently living in poor quality properties, according to latest figures from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.
But under the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act, tenants have more power to sue for compensation if their homes aren’t up to scratch.
The new ruling first came into effect in March 2019 but only covered tenancies starting from that month onwards, along with renewals after this date.
As of March 19, 2020, it will also apply to all existing periodic tenancies, including social housing, in England.
Before the new legislation, private renters would need to rely on their local council to investigate poor conditions.
This can include issues such as mould and pest infestations, poor ventilation, hazards in the home and problems to water supply.
In fact, there are up to 29 issues in total that could apply to the new ruling, as set out in the Housing Health and Safety (England) Regulations 2005.
Courts will decide whether a home is suitable and safe to live in based on if any of these points apply.
If the court deems a property to be unfit for purpose, the rules will force landlords to carry out repairs or to rectify problems.
Should they fail to do so, renters will have the power to take them to court to fix the issues.
Courts can grant an injunction forcing the landlord to carry out works or award compensation to the renter.
Tenants will have to pay for the court fees themselves though, unless they are entitled to free legal aid.
You may get some of this money back if you win your case.
Fees for using a Small Claims Court start at £35 for claims of £300 or less, going up to £130 for claims over £1,000.
You can read more about taking your landlord to court on the Citizens Advice website.
Homes in Wales should be covered under the Renting Homes Wales Act which is expected to come info force in 2021.
Different rules are in place for renters in Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Visit Citizens Advice Scotland and Northern Ireland Direct for more information.
Landlords can now also be slapped with a £30,000 fine for renting out home with dangerous electrics.
While earlier this month, the government announced it was piloting a series of sensors in rented homes that detect damp and cold.
The biggest move in the rental industry last year saw a ban on landlord and letting agency fees.
Source: theSun
