My right to have a working shower in a rental property?

Question

Hi, I have moved into a flat in Hackney London. Prior to signing the tenancy agreement the real estate agent and I looked around the property and the agent pointed out things that would be fixed. I stupidly did not get him to sign to these changes as I could see there was a lot of work being done to the house at that point in time. Now I am living in the property and some things have not been fixed - the most annoying being a dysfunctional shower. We can have baths but there is no water pressure so nothing comes out of the shower head. What can I do?

Answer 1

It isnt your right to have a working shower - unfortunately. Did you know that landlords dont even have to supply hot water to your property if they dont want to? Just keep pestering your landlord about it and hopefully they will come and fix it for you.

Answer 2

firstly, ive attached a link for you to use.

what you need to do, is get the ball rolling. you need to type up 2 letters, both the same (one for you, one for landlord). get them signed by yourself plus 1 other witness. the letter must state that the landlord has 14 days from the date on the letter to make reasonable repair before you approach someone for help and then send that letter by recorded delivery.

you need to then check on the website to see if it has been signed for and keep a copy of that.

if after that date give it a few days later) then contact that link ive given you and they should help further.

if you do contact them, tell them you have already done 'stage 1'letterr sent by recorded delivery and they will then act on your behalf as they have the power to force landlords to do repairs, and if it comes to it, take the landlord to court.

good luck.

Answer 3

I know a lot about real estate in the USA.  I don't know anything about the laws in the UK.  If you click on the UK flag at the bottom of the page, you will get great answers.  Or doesn't anyone participate there. /

Answer 4

First, call the agent, then if the repairs are not done quickly, Post a letter with proof of receipt, and report to the local authorities immediately would be the best start. I think everyone has the right to working plumbing these days.  

Answer 5

If you still have water coming out from the tap but the pressure from a shower head is poor i'm afraid there's nothing you can do, you cannot demand from your landlord to have a pressure system installed. If you have running water then you can wash.

Answer 6

You have a witness, the agent, therefore it is breach of contract and enforceable.