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Housing Conditions (rented properties)
If you live in rented property and have a problem, such as those listed below, the Council can help.
You should tell your landlord/landlady or managing agent first. If they do not rectify the problem you should contact the Private Sector Housing Team. A Housing Officer will discuss the problem with you and if they are able to assist, a visit will be arranged.
At the time of the visit the Housing Officer will inspect the property having regard to the Housing Health and Safety Rating System and any relevant statutory standards. The Housing Health and Safety Rating System is the new system introduced by the Housing Act 2004 to assess conditions of houses.
Where any problems are identified the Council will contact your landlord/landlady or managing agent, working with them to ensure the problems are rectified, using enforcement action where necessary.
Your landlord/landlady or managing agent will be given an opportunity to carry out the necessary works within a specified period of time. A legal notice will usually be served where there is a threat to health, or where the landlord/landlady or managing agent does not carry out the works voluntarily. The notice will state that works are needed and a time period for completion. A copy of the notice will be sent to you.
If the time allowed for the works expires and no works have been done, a final warning will be given. If the works are still not carried out the Council has the power to take legal action against the person responsible, which can result in a fine.
Contact the Private Sector Housing Team if your home is unsatisfactory because:
- it is damp, cold, or the roof leaks
- the drains are blocked
- the windows are broken or rotten
- a gas fire or water heater makes you feel unwell or has soot marks
- electric sockets are blackened or blow frequently
- there is other disrepair that affects you
- there are defective or inadequate bathroom and kitchen facilities
- there are other hazards.
If you live in a shared house, bedsit, or hostel you should also contact the Private Sector Housing Team if:
- you are concerned about the fire precautions provided to the property for example there are no fire doors or the fire doors are defective, or the fire alarm system is not being maintained
- your accommodation is very cramped or overcrowded
- you believe that there are not enough bathrooms, toilets or kitchens
- you think the property may need a House in Multiple Occupation Licence
The Council do not currently operate a landlord accreditation scheme, however this issue is constantly being reviewed. If the current conditions change, action to enable a landlord accreditation scheme will be considered.
The Private Sector Housing Team
North Hertfordshire District Council
Town Lodge
Gernon Road
Letchworth Garden City
Herts SG6 3HN
Telephone: 01462 474000
Email: service@north-herts.gov.uk
