Flipping Nightmare!

Blacksheep1979

princeofpounds wrote: »

Then put a formal written request in to change the carpet at their expense, if it is physically wearing down to the concrete (as this is more than cosmetic). Take and enclose photos. Landlords still have a duty to keep things in good repair.

If they do not repair, then you can use the procedure under Lee Parker vs Izzet 1971 to repair at your own expense and reclaim from future rent. But you must get quotes (following the procedure is critical) and you must do as like for like as possible, so it's not a perfect solution. Plus they might take you to court at the end of the tenancy and whilst you will win if you make this your defense it's a bit of a pain.

However, this is a slightly antagonistic way of proceeding but you are fully within your rights.

To be honest, your best bet is probably to go back to them, point out that they have a duty to keep the house in good repair and that they are perfectly welcome to have their preferred solution, but that this carpet is free if they choose to use it.

Is a carpet a 'necessary repair' though?

qball101

Just say you're going to move out

estelle123

LL sounds like an ar**hole to me,just lay the carpet.

princeofpounds

Is a carpet a 'necessary repair' though?

If it's frayed, no.

If it's showing bare concrete, yes.

Obviously a court or deposit service will be the final arbitrator on a decision like this, but they will use a test of reasonableness and the above seems pretty reasonable to me.

poppysarah

princeofpounds wrote: »

If it's frayed, no.
.

If it's frayed and is a trip hazard then yes.

lilham

princeofpounds wrote: »

If it's frayed, no.

If it's showing bare concrete, yes.

Obviously a court or deposit service will be the final arbitrator on a decision like this, but they will use a test of reasonableness and the above seems pretty reasonable to me.

Are you sure? I was told by the council that even an electric shower wasn't necessary repair. They said only heating, water, electricity are covered. (We had no gas then). Our only option was moving out since neither me or DH likes baths. That's the joy about renting in the UK.

BitterAndTwisted

Under the circumstances I would put in writing to the landlord/s acknowledging that the carpet is laid on bare concrete and is consequently showing signs of serious wear. That way, should the landlord/s try to retain the whole of the OP's deposit to replace the carpet they won't be able to claim for the total cost of a brand-new one. I'd be taking some dated photographs of it in its current state while I was at it. Also, I'd try a bit of friendly negotiation about replacing it. Perhaps the OP and the landlord could agree to split the cost 50/50 as the LL would be getting a free, very necessary underlay. If they're not willing then I'd lay the new carpet on top of the worn one even if it meant no doors could be closed. By the time the new carpet is removed the old one will probably be completely destroyed and useless under there and this would be a serious cause for concern to me.

slickdt

Hi guys,

I have informed the landlords I'm not very happy about the situation. I'm looking at other options and seeing what is available in the local area.

Thanks for the replies. I spoke to the carpet fitter that was suppose to be laying the carpet and underlay and he said if we were to lay the carpet on top of the current carpet it would need glue, due to the flooring, that would most likely leave marks when we leave (thus the landlord would try to keep our deposit)

The funny thing about it is there is a courtyard area next to our front door. It's currently just levelled grey rubble. I had asked for permission to put up a nice white picket fence, a garden arch and lay much nicer chips. (All at my own cost and wrote a letter confirming that I am willing to leave the changes behind for them) Straight after telling us about the carpet he told us they had agreed I could do the work on the courtyard area!

Haha- NOT A CHANCE NOW MY FRIEND!

GEEGEE8

Save your money for your own house one day..

I wouldn't spend a penny on my rented place..

Barneysmom

I'd find somewhere new and put the new carpet down in your new home.
Nowt as strange as folk, as they say.