Warrent to enter to change my metre but they left it so that I am unable to get in.

CashStrapped

In addition to what happymj says above. You need to get a locksmith to repair it then complain to Npower and claim the amount back.

1) Take photos of the lock before work is done. Take a video of you attempting to open the door and use the lock. Now you have evidence of it's current condition.
2) Get a locksmith out to repair it and one who will write a report and full breakdown of the issue on an invoice. Get him to make a copy.
3) Write to npower complaints. Describe what has happened and include the copy locksmith report and invoice and pictures. Ask for a full refund of the amount.

The only alternative (and this could be an easier option) at this point is you demand that the original locksmith comes out to look at it again. As it is Monday you can now do this. Npower have already spoken to them (according to your post) so you need to reiterate that you cannot access the flat because of something they have done. You need to push the point and get that original locksmith out again. You need to be very firm with them. Get them to give you his direct contact number if needs be or the name of his company.

mags21

You state that you are responsible for maintenance and repairs - this is unusual in a rented property, however if this is the case do you have buildings insurance you could claim off?

MListin

I have spoken to four locksmiths this afternoon, all have said the same thing, it is the internal mechanism that has broken and all have quoted over £200.
I don't have that kind of money and I have no way to get it.

At least if I break the small kitchen window we will be in, I can do my best to secure it and then save to have it fixed some time in the future.

What you suggest sounds like a great plan, and if I had the means to get it done and then chase npower for the money back I would but £200 is such a lot of money to me at the moment, I don't even know how long it would take me to save that.

I did call npower again and asked for the locksmiths business details so that I could speak to them myself but they said they can not give out that information, they just point blank refused.

I do not have buildings insurance, I have only had the house and the new contract in my name for a few weeks, I haven't had the time or the money to sort anything like that out yet.

Thankfully a neighbour came over to check on us and offered to let us stay with them for tonight, so at least we have a warm bed for the night and can try again tomorrow.

Cardew

It might be time to get the police involved.

newbie1980

have you not thought of speaking with citizens advise or someone that may have some clout

Mojisola

newbie1980 wrote: »

have you not thought of speaking with citizens advise or someone that may have some clout

A phone call to Shelter might help.

Marktheshark

Serve the utility firm a letter before action with the locksmiths quote as "pre estimated loss"
Add that as the tenant is unable to access the property consequential damages will be sought for interference of the human rights act.
The warrant they obtained was obtained under perjury so they will not want this in court.
The 1958 Gas act only grants them entry by non destructive means for emergency safety measures, not for the sole purpose of debt recovery.

If the door has been damaged then they are liable jointly and severally liable for actions of their servants.
Serve them a letter before action by registered post.
Head it to the Principle legal officer" at the utility firm.

CashStrapped

I would try one last attempt to contact Npower.

Ask to speak to a manager.

1) Explain that their locksmith has rendered the door damaged and unopenable and you cannot access your own property. Even quote the 1958 Gas act above and say their method of entry should have been "non destructive" (quoting anything scares most customer service people). Sound confidant when you quote it. Explain that you have two children who are now technically homless.

2 ) Then ask them to get their locksmith to come out and just check his work and assess why the door will not open. Say that it is a very resonable request in the circumstances and that is the least they can do. Explain if they do not, they will be liable for any repair action you have to take and any temporary housing costs, as the door has most certainly been damaged by their entry to the property.

3) Tell them you expect a resolution that day. Take the persons name and ask them to call you back if they need to.

You must be really firm. Do not get emotional and be nice (I know it is hard).

It is a nasty situation to be in, but fingers crossed that works.

[Deleted User]

Hi,

you say you have two young children, but don't mention a partner.

Can the children's father help out financially at this difficult time?

mags21

Aside from the immediate problem I'm puzzled why you are responsible for maintenance and repairs. As far as I understand under the Landlord and Tennant act this is the responsibility of your landlord, so take advice on this before buying buildings insurance.