Fitness for Human Habitation Act 2019
As of March 20th 2019, it is now a legal requirement to ensure that all rented homes are ‘fit for human habitation’, throughout the entire duration of the tenancy. This effectively means that tenants now have greater power for taking legal action in court over their landlord, if a home fails to meet certain standards which deem the property to be ‘inhabitable’.
What does this mean for landlords and tenants?
In previous years, tenants were required to settle any issues with their landlord directly, or to use their local council to act as an arbitrator, however since the new “fitness for human habitation act 2019” has been in place, tenants are now able to escalate any disputes straight to the court. Potential compensation and rectification of any outstanding issues with the property will need to be paid for by the landlord if a court rules in favour of the tenant’s claim.
However, landlords will of course not be responsible for any defects caused by deliberate negligence from the tenant.
The Association of Residential Letting Agents (ARLA)
ARLA declares that a property is unfit for habitation if there are any serious defects in the following areas:
- Repair
- Stability
- Freedom from damp
- Internal arrangement
- Natural lighting
- Ventilation
- Water Supply
- Drainage and sanitary conveniences
- Facilities for storing/preparing/cooking of food and disposal of waste water
The Housing Health and Safety Rating System (read more)
HHSRS provides guidance for landlords to help them understand their responsibilities towards their tenants and identify if there are any works which should be undertaken on their properties in order to confirm with HHSRS.
“Freedom from Damp” – How can South East Timber & Damp help?
The ‘fitness for human habitation act 2019’ was brought in to help landlords and tenants and South East Timber & Damp can provide help for both. We will inspect the property for any damp defects which deem the property to be inhabitable; we will then get to the root of the issue by determining its cause and then provide an impartial report on our findings.
Our surveyors are certified by the PCA – The Property Care Association for dampness in buildings and have attended regular training in regards to ventilation and condensation masterclasses.
We really do have the knowledge to identify and provide the best solutions to avoid costly court cases. Surveys from £95 plus VAT.
Can we help you with a pre-let assessment?
Give us a call on 01732 884535
We would love to come and assess your damp issue and talk you through the options available in remedying the problem. Or we can put your mind at ease in giving you a second opinion prior to choosing a contractor to carry out works.
Get in touch to arrange a damp survey to get your issue assessed, we really are the best choice.