Union calls for more help for renters during pandemic

TENANTS in a South Side flat have been unable to get crucial repairs carried out during the coronavirus crisis after their letting agent put all its staff on the furlough scheme.

Sam Dransfield and Lauren Davis reported leaking windows, a malfunctioning smoke alarm and a broken oven in their Pollokshaws Road flat to Edzell Property Management before lockdown began.

But the pair, who say they’re still paying the full rent, are “very disappointed” as none of the issues have been fixed.

Edzell said contractors had been asked to carry out the repairs but the lockdown was announced before they could visit the flat.

A spokesman said the company’s “hands are tied”, due to government guidelines, now its workers are on furlough leave.

Scotland’s tenants’ union Living Rent believes the situation shows the government needs to do more to support renters during the pandemic.

Simon Furse, from the union, said: “This case clearly shows that tenants need more protection during this crisis. We need action from the government to reduce or suspend rents during the pandemic.”

Edzell told the tenants to carry out any repairs they can and the cost would be deducted from their rent.

But the union said Sam, who works on a zero-hours contract, has lost most of his income due to the pandemic, leaving the pair struggling to pay their rent.

The tenants said: “We are very disappointed by Edzell’s lack of action when it comes to repairs.

“The truth is, if they attended