Slough Council Leave Tenant Without Running Water For Almost a Year

Background

Ms C contacted us at the end of last year as there had been no running water throughout her property for approximately 8+ months. She had made continuous complaints and incurred significant outgoings and expenses as a result of the lack of water in her home.

It was later discovered that these issues were due to a fractured water pipe.

Representation

The landlord, Slough Borough Council, provided evidence to show that our client had been complaining of these issues regularly for some time, yet no works had been undertaken to remedy the situation.

We instructed a surveyor to attend the property, who confirmed that the property wasn’t reasonably suitable for occupation in its current state, given the necessity of running water, and the impact of it not being properly supplied into the home.

The surveyor identified that external ground would need to be excavated in order for the failed water main to be removed, and for a new functioning pipe to be installed.

Resolution

Unfortunately, initial negotiations with the landlord weren’t effective, and their offers failed to be reflective of the distress and inconvenience Ms C had suffered as a result of nearly a year’s worth of issues caused by the fractured pipe.

As a result, we had to issue court proceedings against Slough Borough Council to ensure our client’s best interests were preserved. In light of us issuing court proceedings, her landlord was willing to re-negotiate, where thereafter the case settled for £4,500 – and the landlord agreed to complete the necessary remedial works outlined by the surveyor.

Thankfully, the client now once again has a functioning running water supply to her home, and can continue to enjoy her property as intended.

If you are a social housing tenant, and are suffering as a result of disrepair, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us on 0151 475 1999, for a free, no-obligations initial consultation. Alternatively, you can reach us via email at Info@IrvingsLaw.com.