Getting the Reciver to fix the w/machine

Chazza_2010

Hi,

I have a washing machine which is on its final legs/in desperate need of a check-up. I notifed the agents 12 days ago that it did not sound healthy and needed a check-up.

I also mentioned that we have 2 kids, one newborn - so a washing machine is essential right now.

The washing machine has got worse and is now unusable. I havent got the final answer form my agent yet (who acts for the receiver - the property has been repossesed) but I think the receiver is going to decline the payment required for the engineers to come out.

If like last time, the reason for declining is because they feel like it.

I'm aware I might have to "write a letter" - seriously does this still stand now we all use emails?

I'm of the thinking that if I have to write a letter (maybe I could fax it to the agents?) then give them half a day andif they still decline get an engineer out myself. Having a washing machine that doesnt work with a newborn is like having a broken toilet for obvious reasons.

Any advice is apprciated, thankyou.

Chazza

Fire_Fox

Complain in writing by recorded delivery, how much harder is writing a letter than typing an e-mail anyway? By all means fax or e-mail a second copy if you feel speed is of the essence but this does not constitute a proper paper trail and IME does not pack the same punch. The agent does not have any repairing obligations so you are better off dealing with your landlord (the receiver) directly.

The law says that repairs must be effected within a reasonable timeframe, half a day is not reasonable and having a faulty washing machine is not an emergency unless it has flooded the property. I would suggest you use a friend or family members washing machine or a launderette for the time being, by all means keep receipts and ask the landlord to compensate you (not sure he has any obligation to but worth a shot).

N79

Fire_Fox wrote: »

The law says that repairs must be effected within a reasonable timeframe, half a day is not reasonable and having a faulty washing machine is not an emergency unless it has flooded the property. I would suggest you use a friend or family members washing machine or a launderette for the time being, by all means keep receipts and ask the landlord to compensate you (not sure he has any obligation to but worth a shot).

OP - I agree with Fire Fox that you have unrealistic expectations as a washing machine is not a priority repair.

If it means that much to you then as an alternative you could arrange the repair yourself (and at your own cost) but note that you would need your LL's permission to do this.

poppysarah

IMO: A washing machine included in the rental should have the same repair as you would get if you rent one from a washer rental place.

The receiver not wanting to sort it out means the receiver should dispose of the property as soon as possible.

How long has it been in "receiverdom"?

If they want to be landlords they should step up to the mark. If they want to shift the property then they should get on with it.

silvercar

There have been a few threads on here about lenders in repossession acknowledging tenancies and tenants then becoming tenants of the receiver. Great in theory but not so in practice. That is the problem with receivership landlords; minimise costs and only attend to health and safety issues.

Chazza_2010

Thanks guys.

Very helpful. I was informed also that under an STA repairs of white goods are not covered so if the landlord does not want to help they dont have to.

The agent has actually been very helpful on this one and hopefully I should be reimbursed for getting it fixed.

Yes, having a receiver as a landlord is probably not ideal.

chappers

Chazza_2010 wrote: »

Thanks guys.

Very helpful. I was informed also that under an STA repairs of white goods are not covered so if the landlord does not want to help they dont have to.

That is correct unless it is specificaly mentioned in the tenancy agreement.
I wouldn'yt hold out your hopes it is highly unlikely the recievers will do more than they have to to maintain the tenancy.

Personally speaking I would be looking to find somewhere else to live as depending upon where you are in your tenancy you could be given notice at any time if the recievers decide to dispose of the property

G_M

Read this Landlordzone thread here.