Renting and problems with cooker

TangledMemories_2

Hi All,

I don't know if this is posted in the right place, but as I'm renting, I thought I'd try here.

Our house is rented privately through an ageency. I've been with the same agency for 6 years. When we moved in 18 months ago, I informed them that there was a problem with the gas oven in that the ignition didn't work and I was having to use alternative methods to get it lit...which meant, leaning right into the oven and attempting to light it. The same problem happens on the hob, and one of the rings doesn't even feed gas through.
A guy came out and said that it was going to be cheaper to replace the oven and hob than to try and get parts....
I haven't heard anything since...and to be honest, I now have quite a bad burn on my wrist which is going to scar on top of the existing previous burn scars (I did have oven gloves on at the time).

As my OH has a disability, do we have any rights in demanding for the oven to either be fixed or replaced?

Thanks

princeofpounds

Yes. Write again to them. State that nothing has been done and that you have been burnt as a result. State that if they do not replace or repair the cooker to a functioning standard you will undertake the work yourself under the process outlined in Izzet vs Lee Parker (1971) and deduct the cost from the rent.

Search the forums for that case and you'll find plenty of info on what the tenant's right to repair is and how to correctly go about it.

PasturesNew

Most people with older gas ovens use a long igniter switch. Like a wand.
Like this http://www.nisbets.co.uk/products/productdetail.asp?productCode=C090&BrandGroupCode=&BrandGroupName=&ShopByBrand=

welshy_2002

Yes you do. Someone will be along in a minute and help you with that

Sorry to hear you've burned yourself. Can you not buy an electric gas cooker lighter? These have long handles and create a spark. that or use Cook's matches which are a few inches long.

TangledMemories_2

I've got one of those electric thingies....but it's the reaching in and out of the oven that's causing me to burn!
Especially...if I've cooked something and then realise it needs a little bit longer...and have to relight.
I know some of you will say....well leave the oven on until you know food is cooked thoroughly...but surely, if I'm paying £400 a month, I should be able to not have a new burn added to my collection?!

People are looking at my wrist as thinking something more sinister is going on!

samroo

Just out of interest, was anything mentioned on your last gas safety inspection

Jowo_2

The Shelter website has excellent information on how to get a landlord to complete repairs, including advice how to keep good records on it, plus a process (which must be followed to the letter) on how to get the repair done yourself and deduct it from the rent as a last resort. The landlord is obliged to keep in good repair appliances that they provided and replace them when broken.

Woodywoodside_2

Do you not have a landlords certificate. This would have checked the cooker. It is illegal to rent a property out with out one it should be displayed in your rental property and renewed each year. My husband is an inspector so I know their are huge fines if your landlord hasn't got one. So ask say you would like a copy.

TangledMemories_2

the gas certs always mention the disrepair of the cooker
the house hasn't even got smoke alarms fitted which I believe are a requirement for rented premises?
Also...when it rains, we have to block the front door with towels and mats because it rains in.
I'm just scared of kicking up a fuss!

sooz

Don't be scared.
Just write to your LL or LA, informing them of the problem with both the door & the oven. Do mention that you have multiple burns from the oven. Set a deadline for them to do something about it.
Smoke alarms are not a requirement unless you live in an HMO, or your building was recently built.This doesn't stop you getting your own. If you speak to your local fire brigade (not 999!), they will even supply & fit them for free.

TangledMemories_2

Cool...thanks Sooz.
I think I will go and see the letting agents tomorrow. I've never complained in 6 years...but I can't keep getting burned...I can't even let OH attempt to use the oven in case he hurts himself.