Letting agent failing to attend to tenant’s electrical problems

I RECENTLY moved into a flat, which has numerous problems. However, the problems concerning me the most have to do with the electricity as it trips and unfortunately we have now five appliances damaged as a result.

We have been communicating these problems with the letting agent but not much has been fixed.

Of all the appliances, we cannot live in a flat without a fridge or microwave or laptop chargers which all were damaged by the constant tripping of the electricity.

I want to replace the fridge and microwave with the rent money because these agents have not been taking us seriously and we now are at our wits’ end as a result of the damage we are suffering to our appliances.

Would you kindly advise on how to deal with this matter? Faith Leburu

Georgie: The electrical issues are of huge concern – the flat needs to be fit for occupation and this sounds like a health hazard. The landlord is responsible for maintenance issues. The tenant has already informed them of the issues but the problem has not been resolved.

The tenant can now claim breach of contract and demand repairs within days – if there’s a lease agreement in place, it should be specified in the agreement.

If the landlord does not comply, the tenant can cancel the lease and vacate – or fix the issues herself.

The landlord has to provide premises in a reasonable condition and in a good state of repair.

He/she must ensure you have “undisturbed use and enjoyment” and that the electricity, plumbing, etc are kept in good working order.

The tenant has the choice of either cancelling the lease or fix the problem herself as nothing has been done (provided she keeps all the receipts and cash slips as proof) and inform the landlord that the costs will be deducted from the rent.

Damages claims would be more difficult to prove, which is why household contents must be insured.