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What readdress is there under these rental circumstances?
theGrinch
Posts: 3,133 Forumite
A relative booked a serviced apartment studio in a block of 30 similar units all rented by a large company with several blocks across London.
Although, she asked to do a viewing beforehand (on more than one occasion) she was told that all units were occupied and it wasn't possible. She was then told that there is a waiting list and it was advisable to book.
My relative paid one week, plus one week's deposit by debit card with the intention of a 6-month stay. All told £530 was paid.
She took the keys yesterday but there are several issues and she isnt comfortable to stay in that studio or building now.
The 3 major issues.
1. musty damp odour in the room, particularly strong around the bed area.
2. fingerprints, watermarks and stains on the walls. I must admit its one of the grubbiest walls I have seen in any property and I have been around many rooms in the last 30-years. It is unpresentable.
3. most worryingly, there is obvious rodent damage to the curtains. Not just a hole or two but significant gnawing over a prolong period to them. So bad the lined curtains had ripped and were flapping.
NB: No inventory was taken on arrival.
I had a look today and was very disappointed, however there was no manager around to discuss concerns with on Sunday.
The terms of the agreement on their website appear to state in a fumbling way a minimum of 2 weeks stay otherwise the deposit it kept. Maybe she was unlucky, but she feels very misled given there advertising literature and videos.
We have worded an email to the building manager, however, in lieu of an answer (assuming the worse) what readdress is there for recovery on the weeks rent and deposit?
She has written off removal costs incurred (even though no removals was done).
Thank you.
Although, she asked to do a viewing beforehand (on more than one occasion) she was told that all units were occupied and it wasn't possible. She was then told that there is a waiting list and it was advisable to book.
My relative paid one week, plus one week's deposit by debit card with the intention of a 6-month stay. All told £530 was paid.
She took the keys yesterday but there are several issues and she isnt comfortable to stay in that studio or building now.
The 3 major issues.
1. musty damp odour in the room, particularly strong around the bed area.
2. fingerprints, watermarks and stains on the walls. I must admit its one of the grubbiest walls I have seen in any property and I have been around many rooms in the last 30-years. It is unpresentable.
3. most worryingly, there is obvious rodent damage to the curtains. Not just a hole or two but significant gnawing over a prolong period to them. So bad the lined curtains had ripped and were flapping.
NB: No inventory was taken on arrival.
I had a look today and was very disappointed, however there was no manager around to discuss concerns with on Sunday.
The terms of the agreement on their website appear to state in a fumbling way a minimum of 2 weeks stay otherwise the deposit it kept. Maybe she was unlucky, but she feels very misled given there advertising literature and videos.
We have worded an email to the building manager, however, in lieu of an answer (assuming the worse) what readdress is there for recovery on the weeks rent and deposit?
She has written off removal costs incurred (even though no removals was done).
Thank you.
"enough is a feast"...old Buddist proverb
0
Comments
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A formal, written complaint, backed up with photos, listing the problems, sent to the manager and copied to Head Office (if any). Also enclose any writen promises, brochure/marketing statements/photos etc made by the company.
Or check their website for a complaints procedure.
However, if they do not agree to refund the weeks rent and deposit (as I supect), the only options are
* write it off and get on with life
* go to court and spend time and effort and stress claiming it back.0 -
thanks for taking the time to reply.
It pretty much confirms our thoughts.
Formal letter sent to building manager. Waiting for response. Hopefully, they will hold hands up and say this isnt acceptable. If not then letter to appropriate director as s/he should know this is what is being presented."enough is a feast"...old Buddist proverb0 -
If you paid via card you could request a chargeback
If it was a credit card then the card company and landlord and jointly liable (section 74)baldly going on...0
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