Tenants who believe their housing conditions are sub-standard are now being advised to take the first step by contacting their landlord directly, in writing, before seeking assistance from their local council. This recommendation comes as part of a broader effort to ensure that tenants communicate their concerns clearly, allowing landlords the opportunity to address any issues before external intervention is needed.
A report presented to Cheshire East Council’s health and wellbeing board brought attention to the troubling link between poor housing conditions and adverse health outcomes. The report, which was highlighted in local media, emphasised how living in substandard conditions can significantly impact residents’ physical and mental well-being. It also outlined how such issues can lead to increased healthcare costs, especially in cases where tenants are left to live in unhealthy environments for extended periods.
The findings of the report painted a concerning picture for housing in England. In 2022, an estimated 970,000 people living in the private rented sector and 416,000 people in the social rented sector were still residing in homes deemed to be substandard. These figures underscore the urgent need for action to improve living conditions for renters and to hold landlords accountable for providing safe, healthy, and well-maintained homes for their tenants.
Karen Carsberg, the head of housing at Cheshire East Council, provided a detailed overview of how the council addresses housing standards in the private rented sector during a recent meeting. She highlighted the vital role of the council’s housing standards officers, who are responsible for inspecting properties, ensuring compliance with regulations, and taking necessary enforcement actions. These officers are tasked with ensuring that landlords adhere to legal standards for health and safety, providing a clear framework to address substandard housing conditions. The team also has the authority to step in when landlords fail to meet these obligations, ensuring tenants’ rights are protected.
While the enforcement team plays a crucial role, Carsberg also stressed the importance of tenants taking an active role in addressing housing issues. She explained that tenants should initially raise concerns directly with their landlords, as outlined on the council’s website. The first step in this process is for tenants to put their complaints in writing to their landlord, ensuring that there is a formal record of the issue. This is an essential step before approaching the council or enforcement officers, as it helps to create a clear timeline of the tenant’s attempts to resolve the matter independently.
By following this procedure, tenants can also build up evidence showing that they have made reasonable efforts to communicate their concerns. In the case that the landlord fails to take appropriate action, the written complaint becomes an important piece of evidence when further steps are required. Carsberg explained that having this documented communication makes it easier for the housing standards team to take the next steps in addressing the issue, such as issuing warnings, fines, or other enforcement measures against the landlord.
This process not only ensures a structured approach but also protects the tenant’s rights by making sure their complaints are officially recorded. Carsberg reiterated that the council’s housing standards officers are ready to take action when necessary, but this step-by-step process helps to build a strong case for intervention. In doing so, it ensures a fair and transparent approach to resolving housing disputes, ultimately protecting tenants from unsafe living conditions and holding landlords accountable for their properties.
Karen Carsberg continued by addressing a common concern among tenants, explaining that some individuals have been hesitant to raise complaints due to fears of eviction. She acknowledged that this reluctance has been an obstacle in addressing poor housing conditions. However, she reassured the public that the council has provisions in place to protect tenants. She pointed out that there are specific grounds under which action can be taken against landlords who attempt to evict tenants in retaliation for making complaints. This protection helps to reassure tenants that their rights are safeguarded when reporting substandard living conditions.
The meeting also highlighted the issue of fuel poverty in the Cheshire East area, with a particular focus on the impact of cold homes on tenants’ health. According to the report, around 20,163 residents in the area were affected by fuel poverty in 2022. This is a significant concern, especially during the winter months when heating costs can become unaffordable. The report emphasised the serious consequences of inadequate heating, as it not only affects comfort but also poses a risk to the health of vulnerable residents, particularly the elderly and families with young children.
The report further discussed the health risks associated with damp housing, which is a major contributing factor to a range of health issues, including respiratory problems, infections, and allergies. The English Housing Survey revealed that in 2022/23, nine per cent of privately rented homes and 5.4 per cent of social rented homes in England had problems with damp. Dampness in homes is a persistent issue that has significant consequences for tenants’ health and wellbeing. The report stressed the importance of addressing these issues promptly to prevent further health complications.
In addition to the health risks, damp conditions can also lead to greater financial burdens on tenants, particularly those already struggling with fuel poverty. The combined challenges of inadequate heating and dampness can create a cycle of poor living conditions that are difficult for tenants to break free from. It is clear from the meeting and report that urgent action is needed to address these issues, ensuring that tenants can live in homes that are safe, healthy, and affordable.
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