It’s our job at ForHousing to keep homes safe and well looked after.
When there is a report of disrepair and this has not been repaired within a reasonable time of it being reported to us, we know we have let tenants down and not met our own standards.
Recently we’ve seen an increase in tenants instructing solicitors (either directly or through claims management companies who knock on doors in their area, social media or leaflets), to begin a disrepair legal claim on their behalf. Some of these disrepair claims have failed in court with tenants being ordered to pay thousands of pounds in costs.
We know it can be tempting for tenants, especially when many people are struggling with rising costs of living to enter a contract with a claims management company with the promise of financial awards.
We’re launching a ForHousing campaign later this month to raise awareness of these types of claim companies and to support tenants to make the best decision for themselves. Our advice is always to report repairs to us, we’re here to help if they need support.
Our easy-to-understand leaflet will remind tenants to be cautious and not be pressured into entering a contract and recommend that if they are still unhappy with our services to raise a complaint.
The leaflet will be supported by social media graphics and an animated video and we’re currently gathering feedback from our involved tenants to make sure the information is easily understood.
Tenants can report repairs directly to us on our website, or if they are still unhappy, to talk to us on 0300 123 5522 or to make a complaint online.
