Can I get my landlord to fix my aerial?

Question

I have a new tenancy agreement that started on monday, I haven't moved in full yet as I am still using my old place til the tenancy is up on that one. I tried to tune a TV in that was plugged into the rooftop aerial but it didn't work. The TV is in good working order so I know there is nothing wrong with it. I also know that in the 5 days since my tenancy started there is no way I could be blamed for breaking it as I haven't even moved in properly.

I asked my landlord if they would be able to fix it for me, and they have replied that it is nothing to do with them. I have read the contract and the only way I can see to get them to fix it would be through the clause that says they have to "Renew any of the furniture and effects which shall no longer be of satisfactory quality"

Is it possible that the aerial is classed as an "Effect"? The dictionary defines it as personal belongings or goods, so would it fall under that?

Answer 1

depending on where you live see if the cable company will come out and set up a line so you dont need to use the rooftop thingy since you would need to get a box for that starting in Feb 2009 when all cable goes to digital

Answer 2

This is likely something a previous tenant installed and as such the landlord, though they left it up, is not willing to upkeep. This is not considered something like the electrical system.

This is also why the company I work for, as a landlord, wired for cable and let nothing be put on the roof.....we're sure not getting up there to take it down.  

Answer 3

I would say it's your responsibility as a T.V. is not a necessary fixture or fitting,more of a luxury.

Answer 4

NO - they are NOT responsible for a TV antenna.  TV is NOT a required amenity.  Weather or not your TV works is strictly between you and your cable provider. Your landlord has NOTHING to do with it.

Besides - an antenna will not work next year anyway unless you get the converter box.

Answer 5

Since the arial was provided by them then I would have thought that it was their responcibility to make sure it is kept in good working order.

If you used an estate agent to find the residence then you could try working through the estate agent since they can have more luck with this kind of work as they work with it so much.

Answer 6

The aerial is definitely the landlord's responsibility, even if a previous tenant installed it. It's a fixture or fitting. The landlord will have to get it put into working order, it's the law.

Sounds like you have a dodgy landlord.

Answer 7

Hi

If the aerial was installed when you took the flat on, it is part of the rental agreement and therefore is the landlords responsibility, especially after such a short time. They are obliged to keep white goods, doors, windows, roofs, aerials included.

Answer 8

Personally, I agree...it's a fixture or fitting. I keep all mine up to date. However, you can't force him...some would still class it as a luxury, and to argue the toss would be a waste of time. Consider if this is likely to be a portent of future problems...maybe it might be worth reviewing your decision to lease from him?