reasonable time scale?

LauraLou1982

hello guys!

All i feel like i do recently is ask questions! So heres another one, sorry guys!
What is a reasonable time scale for a LA to organise works to be done on a property? Reported 3 problems on Monday and am still waiting for their plumber to ring me and arrange to come round...I have had to ring twice to chase this up and still no luck. They need to remove a (stinky!) old washing machine, repair a broken banister and fix a sink where the plug wont pop back up so you cant use the basin, plus a big crack/small hole in it.

they said he would call me today to arrange to come round, I asked what it was he was going to sort (assuming the answer would be all 3) I was told he will arrange to come round and remove washing machine and will talk to me about when he can come back and do the other jobs, as apparantly they have to go to the bottom of the list?! I cant use the sink in the bathroom till this is sorted though so would think would be a bit more of a prority? have only had the keys for a week so dont want to cause loats of fuss already!

cattie

Plumbers are extremely busy people, especially during the colder months of the year & I personally wouldn't consider the jobs you have waiting to be done a real priority compared to say somebody with no heating or hot water.

Though I can imagine not being able to use the handbasin in the bathroom is very inconvenient. So, why not ask for this to go to the top of the list in front of the washing machine issue?

The broken banister may also be a more important issue if it is a safety risk.

LauraLou1982

Thanks Cattie. I think if he had actually called me and told me he was busy and couldnt come round for a few days I would have felt OK about it, its the fact its 4 days later and he still hasnt called me back and the LA keep saying he will. Maybe I shouldnt have signed the inventory and given it back until they had been sorted. If they were waiting for my £2k deposit and first months rent maybe they wouold be a bit quicker!
Thanks though, maybe I will leave it till tomorrow and call again if he hasnt called me.

englishrose19

I had no main heater for a month...

LauraLou1982

Really? That seems ridiculous when you pay rent!
This washing machine was left behind by the old owner (the current ownerss just bought it BTL and I am first tenant) and it doesnt work, is moudly and manky and stinks! Leaked water all over the floor too. I have got my new washing machine being delivered tomorrow and I have paid for them to install it too so thats why I am so keen to have it gone!
Are you managed by a LA englishrose?

englishrose19

LauraLou1982 wrote: »

Really? That seems ridiculous when you pay rent!
This washing machine was left behind by the old owner (the current ownerss just bought it BTL and I am first tenant) and it doesnt work, is moudly and manky and stinks! Leaked water all over the floor too. I have got my new washing machine being delivered tomorrow and I have paid for them to install it too so thats why I am so keen to have it gone!
Are you managed by a LA englishrose?

Yes, we are.

Had all manner of issues, the fridge didn't work when we moved in so had to have a gross two story one stuck in the lounge for over a month, leaking walls (not fixed) and then the heating... sigh! I understand your frustration!

Yorkie1

Bear in mind that the LA may need to obtain the LL's permission before instructing a plumber or agreeing to any expenditure (depending on the nature of the contract the LA has with the LL).

Thrugelmir

LauraLou1982 wrote: »

What is a reasonable time scale for a LA to organise works to be done on a property?

Agents rarely have authority.

Landlord needs to approve request.

tbs624

Ask the LA to confirm that the LL is happy for you to get a scrap metal bloke in to take the old washer away or ask if the people delivering your new one will take the old one away FOC.

Have you checked whether the pop up plug has an accumulation of manky old hair and soap scum ( ie bits of former T!) which may be stopping it from working properly.

If basin is leaking either effect a temporary repair with some silicon sealant or use a washing up bowl for now.

For your child's safety, wedge some plywood against the broken staircase spindle as a temporary measure -DIY stores will cut to size so make it a tight fit and push under handrail

*Write* to the LL, care of the LA ( keep a copy) and ask them for a definite date for the issues to be properly checked out/dealt with. Ask for the plumber's number so you can try to go direct to fix a mutually convenient time/date. If the LA has already said the plumber will call you then it is likely that they have obtained the LL's permission to proceed

You may want to take some dated photos of all repairs/maint issues and keep them safely with your tenancy agreement and copy letters.