Electrical & Heating Issues

If you have an electrical fault in your council property, it’s important to report it as soon as possible, especially if it poses a safety risk.

Start by contacting your council’s housing repairs team to report the fault. Provide details such as the type of electrical issue (e.g. flickering lights, power outages, or exposed wiring) and the areas affected. If the issue is urgent or you believe it could be dangerous (such as a spark, exposed wiring, or a smell of burning), make it clear that it’s an emergency repair.

Be sure to keep a record of your report, including the date, time, and any reference number given. Take photos or videos if possible, especially if the fault presents an immediate risk to your safety or property.

The council is legally responsible for ensuring the electrical systems in your home are safe and in working order. They should act quickly, especially if the issue poses a health or safety risk.

If the council fails to resolve the issue or delays repairs, you may have grounds to escalate your complaint or even pursue legal action.

If you suspect faulty wiring in your council property, it’s important to act immediately, as this can pose a serious safety risk, including the risk of electrical fires or electrocution.

Step 1: Report it to the council
Contact your local council’s housing repairs team as soon as possible to report the faulty wiring. Provide as much detail as you can, such as the areas affected, any visible damage, or any electrical issues like flickering lights or sparking outlets. If you believe the fault is dangerous, emphasise that it is an emergency repair.

Step 2: Document the issue
Keep a record of your report, including the date, time, and any reference number. If possible, take photos or videos of the faulty wiring to support your case.

Step 3: Await action
The council is legally required to maintain electrical safety in your property, and they should address the issue promptly. If the wiring presents an immediate danger, they should act within hours or the same day.

Step 4: Escalate if necessary
If the council doesn’t resolve the problem within a reasonable time, you may have the right to escalate the complaint or even pursue legal action for disrepair or compensation.

If the boiler is not working in your council property, the council is responsible for fixing it, as they are legally required to maintain essential services like heating and hot water. You should report the issue to the council’s housing repairs team as soon as possible, explaining the problem in detail and highlighting the impact on your daily life, especially if it’s affecting your health or comfort, particularly during colder months.

The council must address boiler problems promptly, especially if it leaves you without hot water or heating, as this could pose a risk to your wellbeing. If the issue isn’t fixed within a reasonable time, or the council fails to take action, you may be entitled to escalate your complaint or even pursue legal action. At Legal HD, we help tenants whose boiler issues are not being addressed, ensuring that your rights are protected and repairs are carried out. If you’re facing delays, contact us for expert guidance and support.

If you’re experiencing heating problems in your council flat, it’s important to report the issue straight away — especially during colder months when it can seriously affect your health and wellbeing.

Step 1: Contact the council’s housing repairs team
Let them know what the issue is — whether the heating isn’t working at all, only works in certain rooms, or is inconsistent. Clearly state how it’s affecting your living conditions. Heating faults are usually classed as urgent repairs, so the council should act quickly.

Step 2: Keep records
Make sure to keep a note of when you reported the issue, what you told them, and any reference numbers. If possible, take photos or videos to show how the problem is affecting your home — like if there’s visible damage, damp, or mould caused by lack of heat.

Step 3: Escalate if needed
If the council doesn’t respond or fix the issue within a reasonable timeframe, you may be able to escalate your complaint, take legal action, or even claim compensation.