Tenants can now take legal action against landlords who neglect their properties

Recent changes to legislation have meant that it is now possible for both social and privately-housed tenants to take legal action against landlords who neglect their properties. This is a game-changing development that will allow tenants to not only force property managers to deal with building issues, but also claim compensation for any injury or illness that has resulted. With more and more young people renting rather than buying, landlords are now responsible for the wellbeing of a greater number of tenants than ever before and must take extra steps to ensure that they manage all properties with sufficient care. The legislation covers private areas (i.e. within enclosed properties) and shared or common spaces. Neglect is a key contributor in the build-up of the dangerous legionella bacteria in hot-and-cold water systems. Legionella incidence continues to rise in the UK in areas where property managers fail to carry out their duty of care to tenants and visitors. The bacteria thrives in stagnant water within pipework and water storage tanks, as well as outlets. Without regular flushing, it can pose a serious health risk to any residents, workmen and owners in the building. Other common issues resulting from neglect include diseases caused by untreated damp, electric shocks from untested appliances and stress or illness associated with the presence of vermin. Victims of Legionnaires Disease, a respiratory condition resulting from inhaling infected water droplets, could receive significant compensation if their landlord has failed to put in place and execute sufficient water hygiene protocols. These might include anything from carrying out a risk assessment on the property with a qualified Responsible Person, to performing regular water-system flushing and maintaining water flow in vacant properties. Previously, tenants suffering as a result of neglect would have had to contact the local council, who would carry out checks on the building before contacting the owner. Now, tenants have the power to take their landlords to court directly. It is, therefore, more important than ever that property managers maintain their buildings to a high standard and eliminate risks to health. Sticking to a strict schedule of work, with regular testing and checks, is necessary to fulfil the landlord’s duty of care to all tenants. We provide comprehensive courses designed for building managers to help them carry out risk assessments, test for risk factors and prevent the build-up of dangerous bacteria like legionella. Find a list of courses here, or contact our friendly team on 0333 121 1215 or email info@ppltraining.co.uk to find out more.