What is a Section 82 housing disrepair?
What is a Section 82 housing disrepair? Are you a tenant living in social housing in England or Wales and facing issues with your property’s condition? Understanding your rights and remedies regarding housing disrepair is crucial. One essential legal provision you should be aware of is Section 82.
What is Section 82 Housing Disrepair?
Section 82 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 is a significant legal provision designed to protect tenants residing in social housing from living in unfit or unsafe conditions. This section holds landlords accountable for ensuring that the properties they let are maintained in a habitable state.
Key Points You Need to Know:
1. Defining Housing Disrepair:
Housing disrepair encompasses a range of issues such as dampness, structural defects, faulty plumbing or heating systems, infestations, or issues related to gas and electricity. These issues significantly impact the habitability of the property and can affect your health and well-being.
2. Landlord Responsibilities:
Under Section 82, your landlord has a legal obligation to keep the property in a good state of repair. They are responsible for addressing and rectifying any disrepair issues promptly upon being notified.
3. Tenant’s Rights:
As a tenant, you have the right to live in a property that meets the Decent Homes Standard. If your landlord fails to address the disrepair issues within a reasonable timeframe after being informed, you have legal options to pursue.
4. Notifying Your Landlord:
It’s crucial to report any disrepair issues to your landlord or housing association in writing as soon as they arise. Keep records of all communications, including dates and details of the reported problems.
5. Seeking Remedies:
If your landlord fails to address the disrepair despite adequate notification, you can take further action. This may involve contacting environmental health authorities, initiating legal proceedings, or applying to the court for an order to compel your landlord to undertake repairs.
Conclusion:
Section 82 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 serves as a vital tool for social housing tenants, ensuring that landlords fulfill their obligations to maintain properties in a habitable condition. If you’re experiencing housing disrepair issues, it’s essential to understand your rights and take appropriate steps to seek resolution.
Remember, seeking legal advice or consulting housing advocacy organizations can provide you with valuable guidance and support in navigating housing disrepair matters.
In conclusion, knowledge about Section 82 empowers you as a tenant, enabling you to assert your rights and ensure that your home is a safe and comfortable place to live.
Important links
Housing Disrepair Advice: https://housingdisrepairadvice.org/contact
Housing Ombudsman: https://www.housing-ombudsman.org.uk/
