Dealing with a landlord who fails to carry out necessary repairs can be incredibly frustrating, especially if it affects your health, safety, or ability to live comfortably in your home. In Wilmslow, where rental properties range from modern flats to period homes, it is crucial for tenants to understand their rights and the appropriate steps to take when a landlord does not respond to repair requests. This guide will walk you through your options if you find yourself in this situation.
Understanding your landlord’s responsibilities
Under UK law, landlords are legally required to keep rental properties in a good state of repair. This includes:
- Ensuring the structure and exterior of the property (such as walls, roof, and windows) are maintained
- Keeping installations for water, gas, electricity, and sanitation in working order
- Maintaining heating and hot water systems
- Repairing any damage to communal areas in flats or converted houses
- Addressing any problems related to damp or mould
These responsibilities cannot be waived, even if the tenancy agreement says otherwise. Landlords in Wilmslow, like anywhere else in England, must adhere to the obligations set out in the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 and the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018.
Common repair issues faced by tenants in Wilmslow
Due to the mix of older and newer properties in the area, tenants in Wilmslow frequently face a range of repair issues, including:
- Persistent damp and mould, especially in basement flats or older homes.
- Faulty central heating systems, particularly during colder months
- Leaking roofs or gutters
- Plumbing issues, such as blocked drains or leaking pipes
- Problems with electrical wiring or appliances
These problems can make your home unsafe or uninhabitable, and your landlord has a legal duty to resolve them.
Step-by-step guide if your landlord ignores repair requests
If your landlord is not addressing your repair needs, it’s important to follow a structured approach to escalate the issue while protecting your legal rights.
- Notify your landlord in writing
Start by writing to your landlord or letting agent, clearly describing the issue and when it started. Attach photos or videos if possible. Always keep a copy of your correspondence.
This written request acts as official notice, which is often required before any further action can be taken. You may also want to check your tenancy agreement to see if it includes specific steps for reporting repairs.
- Give your landlord reasonable time to respond
Landlords must be given a fair chance to investigate and carry out repairs. The law does not define exact timelines for every repair, but reasonable expectations are:
- Emergency repairs (e.g. no heating or water): 24–48 hours
- Urgent but non-emergency issues (e.g. leaking roof): Within 5–7 days
- Non-urgent repairs (e.g. cracked tiles): Within 2–4 weeks
If your landlord ignores your request beyond these timeframes, you can begin taking further action.
- Gather evidence
If the repair issue persists, gather evidence. This could include:
- Photos or videos of the problem
- Correspondence with your landlord or agent
- Medical records if the issue affects your health
- Witness statements from neighbours or other tenants
This documentation will help support your case if you need to escalate the matter to the council or seek legal advice.
- Report the issue to Cheshire East Council
In Wilmslow, Cheshire East Council can step in if your landlord fails to deal with repairs. Their housing standards team can carry out an inspection and issue a notice ordering the landlord to make the repairs.
The council uses the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) to assess the risks in your home. If serious hazards are found, the council has the power to enforce repairs and even prosecute landlords in severe cases.
You can report the issue via the Cheshire East Council website or by calling their private sector housing team.
- Consider legal action
If your landlord still fails to act after intervention from the council, you may be able to take legal action. This can include:
- Applying to the county court for an order requiring the landlord to carry out repairs
- Claiming compensation for inconvenience, health impacts, or damage to your belongings
- Withholding rent only under legal advice, as this can put you at risk of eviction
A solicitor experienced in housing law can help you assess your case and explore your options. At Marley Solicitors, we have helped many tenants in Wilmslow and the surrounding areas achieve successful outcomes when landlords have failed in their duties.
When repairs affect your health or safety
If the disrepair is causing or worsening health conditions; such as respiratory problems from mould or stress from living without heating, you may have grounds for a claim under the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018. This legislation empowers tenants to hold landlords accountable in court for living conditions that are not fit for human habitation.
Can you move out if repairs are not carried out?
Moving out might seem like a quick solution, but be cautious. If you leave without ending your tenancy properly, you may still be liable for rent. Speak to a solicitor before making this decision.
In some cases, you might be able to terminate the tenancy early if the landlord is in serious breach of their obligations. This could involve negotiating a surrender of tenancy or using a break clause if one exists.
Tips for dealing with unresponsive landlords
- Always keep records: Save emails, letters, and photos in a secure place
- Be clear and concise: Stick to facts in your communication
- Stay calm and professional: Avoid threats or emotional language
- Know your rights: Familiarise yourself with housing laws
- Seek support early: Legal advice or council intervention can save time and stress
How Marley Solicitors can help tenants in Wilmslow
At Marley Solicitors, we understand how distressing it can be when your landlord ignores repair issues. Our housing law specialists can:
- Assess the strength of your case
- Help you negotiate with your landlord
- Support you in making a complaint to Cheshire East Council
- Represent you in court if needed
- Advise on compensation claims
We offer expert legal services tailored to tenants in Wilmslow and across Cheshire. If you’re struggling with disrepair and need someone on your side, we are here to help.
Conclusion
Living in a rental property with unresolved repair issues is not just inconvenient; it can seriously affect your health and wellbeing. If your landlord in Wilmslow ignores your repair requests, remember that you have legal rights and a range of options to pursue.
Start by putting everything in writing, escalate to the council if needed, and seek legal advice if your landlord continues to be unresponsive. With the right support, you can ensure your home is safe, comfortable, and legally compliant.
If you need advice about housing disrepair in Wilmslow, contact Marley Solicitors today. Your home deserves proper care, and so do you.
