Landlords

[tweaker]

I need a few pointers about building unsound structure. I rent privately a flat which is nice apart from the windows, still single pane and metal framed. One of them has managed to start falling from the wall away outwards, I'm on the second floor (the top) now I've addressed my landlord on this on several occasions plus the other windows that won't open etc...

I could move but being on DLA and severe incapacity benefit I have the rent paid, and just of recent I had to contact the warmfront - which means the landlord didn't pay a penny -for them to install central heating.

I need double glazing as it gets so cold in here that the olive oil solidifies in winter and I am rather confined to my bedroom to keep warm. I have several plates in my body, so one can imagine what the cold feels like.

Citizens advice will not help being private rent, so I'm lost on what to do

Any advice would much help the ball rolling on what to do?

[Count-A-Strong]

This is a difficult one tweaker. If the landlord refuses to accept responsibility for the glazing there's not a lot you can do. The only thing i can suggest would be getting an independant surveyor to do a report on your behalf stating that the windows required replacing and or they were structurally unsound(this would probably cosy £150 - £200) which you could then use a leverage on your landlord.

[tweaker]

Count-A-Strong

I have told the landlord it'll cost no-more than £500 scaffolding(I know friends in a local company well). A TV advert BOGOF Glazing company, they will allow a payment scheme, so it's not going to cost alot in one hit - Still not interested though?

Apart from a hit-man (ha-ha) !

He's a bit dodgy - cutting corners - I might just be ruthless (in words) and see what he says. The word 'Lawyer' normally arouses one to get on with things...

[Stu Dent]

It won't sound very fair (and I suppose it's not) but the law expects you to leave.

The very fact that you recognise that the old windows are a potential hazard means that if you are injured by them the 'non-injuria volenti' principle applies. If you remain in the property aware that the windows are hazardous then the lanlord will not be held to be liable for any subsequent injury caused to you.

[buildersmate]

Hmm. I think I'll have to stop crossing roads then. I know that there is a risk that I might get knocked over. Wouldn't want that.
This has to be a wind-up.