We
here at Community Law Service are please to be able to provide advice and assistance concerning housing law. Unclear
as to what this relates to, below is a brief explanation of what this can cover; but can include many more things, so feel
free to contact us with any queries.
Possession:
Having problems paying your rent/mortgage and fearful at losing your home?
Whether
your renting or own there property (with a mortgage), there are a wide range of legislation in place to try and where possible
prevent people from loosing their home, no matter who your landlord/mortgage company may be. It may even be possible to make
agreements to enable you to remain in the property and pay the arrears over time.
Been served a Notice or possession proceedings started in court?
It is
important that you seek advice and assistance as soon as possible. Irrespective of the reason why possession is being sought
there are various options, including challenging the claim, counterclaim or assisting in securing alternative accommodation.
Are bailiffs coming to evict you?
If you have been served
with a warrant for eviction and dates fixed for bailiffs to remove you from the property, it is not always the end. It may
still be possible to ask for one more chance or even more time.
Remember it is never too late, even if you have been evicted, to try and ensure you get an opportunity
to put forward your arguments.
Homelessness & Unsuitable accommodation:
Living on the streets?
You may be able to request help from the Local Authority
who are bound under strict legislation. Local Authority often refuses to provide assistance where possible, to avoid the inherent
difficulties faced on them in securing accommodation. Please note such legislation can be very complex
and confusing, with strict time limits so important you seek assistance urgently.
Has you application been unsuccessful?
The Local Authority
may be mistaken in their decision or failed to consider all the relevant issues, and therefore, it may be possible to challenge
the decision, if within the strict time limits.
My
home is unsuitable?
If your living in a house that is not fit for you or your family be it for over crowding,
disrepair, disability, fear for safety etc, there may be various avenues available, including alternative accommodation, especially
if renting the property from the Local Authority or Housing Association.
Disrepair:
My landlord will not fix the property?
Should your landlord fail to repair the property
there are a number of options available to try and get the work fixed including taking him to court. There are time limits
within which to make such claims, so please contact us as soon as possible.
Repairs are insufficient and problems persist?
Repairs
required may be more substantial than those the landlord would like to pay for and could mean detailed investigation required
by experts. Subject to funding conditions it may be possible to arrange for experts report.
My belongings got ruined by the disrepair?
It may be possible to
recover any out of pockets expenses incurred following the disrepair, should they be reasonable, including damages for pain
and suffering, inconvenience etc. There are time limits within which to make such claims, so please contact us as soon as
possible.
For more information
or an appointment, please contact us on 0845 413 0555