washing machine repair - whar are my rights

lauzt1987

Hi there. Would appreciate any advice on this matter.

I live in an unfurnished flat, however the landlord has provided all white good and these are on our inventory.

About 6 months ago, we started noticing small grease type stains on all our clothes after they had been washed. After chnaging washing poweder etc I cam to realise that it was the machine that was causing these stains. We reported this to our letting agency who told us that the machine was under warranty and we would therefore have to take it up with the manufacturers. I did this. They sent an engineer out who basically ticked a few boxes and told us the machine was fine. The machine was not fine so I kept pursuing this and eventually they agreed to repair the machine and basically fitted a new drum etc. The machine was fine for about 3 months.

Tonight I have noticed that these stains have re appeared on my clothes. I know it is not the washing liquid etc as I have been using the same bottle this whole time, therefore it would not make sense for it to be fine for months then start again. I know nothing about plumbing etc but this would lead me to believe it's maybe something wrong with the plumbing.

I just wanted some advice before I go back to my landlord as i'm sure they are just going to tell me to go back to the manufacturers again and there will be a lot of passing the buck. My lease is pretty much silent with regards to repairs. All it says is that the landlord is responsible for keeping in repair and in proper working oreder the installations at the property for the supply of gas, water electricity and for sanitation including basins, sinks, baths and sanitary conveniences.

I feel that it is the landlord's responsibility to look into this and repair the machine/plumbing as I have already spent hours on the phone to the manufacturer and my clothes have been ruined in the process. What are my rights here? Can I force him to fix this/without rent etc? Any law I could spout off would be useful! I'm in Scotland if that helps.

many thanks in advance!

G_M

1) (edit - Sorry: can't comment on Scottish law)

2) The warranty is between the LL and manufacturer, not you, so it should be LL who chases this.

3) report everything to the LL in writing.

But you could try some basic cleaning: washing machines do get dirty.
Do you use a lot of powder? This can build up over time. Try using less?
Do you check/clean the filter?
Do you use a cold wash setting (30 or 40 degrees)? Again, this causes washing powder to build up as it doesn't disolve so well.

Try running the machine once a month, empty, on the hottest setting, with no washing powder, but with some (cheap) vinegar. This will dissolve/flush out built-up detergent and dirt. Check inside the rubber round the door too for build-up of dirt/residues. This area often remains damp after use and can be a source of mould.