Lettings Agent query - can they do this?!

fairy_lights

Sounds like he's either particularly rubbish at being a handyman, or just can't be bothered to fix the problem.
If you can't aim the showerhead at the shower curtain, and can't aim it at the wall how are you supposed to shower?! The whole surround to the shower is supposed to be waterproof to stop leaks happening so he's talking waffle.

LateStarter

The grouting/tiling is part of the building and fixtures and the landlord's responsibility. I had this once in my (owned) house and used plastic sheeting to cover all the tiles until a plumber could come out. He eventually removed all the tiles, let the wall dry out, and replaced them a couple of days later.

It's all been good since.

princeofpounds

Great, you found the problem.

Follow up in writing..

- You removed the panel and identified the leak
- The leak is coming through the tiles and/or the grout
- You request that someone comes to fix it ASAP.

If the neighbour bothers you, tell them that you identified the problem your incompetant LL could not, that you have requested a repair in writing, and you would be very glad if they too could chase your landlord.

To be frank I would then just carry on using it unless they arrange for an appointment PDQ (it is reasonable not to shower if it's going to be fixed in a week or two, but not to simply stop using it forever). Maybe some temporary protective sheeting on the wall might help mitigate it.

Just be careful that you don't fall through a rotten floor!

There are ways you can 'force' a repair, but you might not want to bother given it is not directly affecting you right now.

JWIOW

Thank you all for your help! It's been invaluable.