Apartment Windows Responsibility

Tom99

looks like the timber part has been seriously neglected and maybe even a little rot.
From what you have said above it looks like it was your responsibility to keep the inside of the frame in good decorative repair. Was the timber originally varnished?

sal_III

That looks terrible for newish build (judging by the building opposite). How long have you lived there, why did you let it deteriorate so badly?

Judging by the lease, looks like the ball is in your court. Might be worth checking if there is any warranty for the windows. If it's beyond repair and the inside frame is integral to the external frame, you will need a permission of the Freeholder/ManCo for replacement. And if the outside portion is fine, you will likely have to foot the entire bill.

jon52

thanks for the reply. i don’t live in the apartment and am unaware that the windows has deteriorated until the tenant recently reported it. but i think they were struggling to keep it close and the handle has jammed.

sal_III

It looks like water damage over long period of time on unprotected wood, likely condensation.

If that is the case It's a bit grey area, who's to blame - the Tenant for not taking care of condensation or you as LL for not making regular inspections and treating the wooden frame against water.

Bottom line is it's almost definitely up for you to resolve, rather than Freeholder/ManCo, then either absorb the cost or charge the tenant if it was their fault.

Fire_Fox

jon52 wrote: »

Hi Everyone,

I have recently have a few tired windows that I am struggling to keep shut (stuck handle). As it is an apartment (i consider quite a high building), I am just wondering if i am responsible to fix the windows or the managing company ? :

Regards,
Jon

High-rise blocks are defined as 18 metres or six stories I think. Worth knowing for Building Regs (see the Planning Portal).

That looks like years of water damage to the window. Aren't you inspecting the flat, electrical safety testing, hardwired smoke alarms as required of landlords?

Are the extract ventilation fans in the kitchen and bathroom in full working order? Cleaned out and sucking not just noisy! That is key for avoiding condensation damage, and for safe indoor air quality generally.

HTH.

molerat

It is possible that the window locking could be saved with a bit of lubrication.

jon52

Thanks for the suggestion and apologies for the late respond.

It wasn't years of damage as the tenant has not been there for years. I dont exactly remember how long but it wasn't that long. on a more serious inspection, I have noticed that the windows in the picture is not actually damaged, it's the varnish that is mouldy. Once I have cleaned it(and it peeled off). I realise the wood is still okay. It needs new paint and the wood sash is perfectly fine.

and thanks to molerat suggestion, I did loosen the mechanism with WD40.

Thanks again.