Paula, whose name has been changed for anonymity, was forced to live in an unsafe property despite complaining to her landlord multiple times a year. JPL Lawyer successfully awarded her £1,500, plus an additional £500 in compensation.

The 53-year-old tenant, who had lived in the property since 2019, made several complaints to her landlord about defective plastering, damp, and leaks in her kitchen, living room, and utility room. The damp throughout the property resulted in smells and cold temperatures, making it impossible for Paula to host friends and family.

A surveyor report found that multiple bedroom doors were missing inside Paula’s home, making the property excessively cold.

Paula’s landlord, Barnsley Council, failed to resolve the issues despite her filing numerous complaints throughout the years.

After feeling neglected by her landlord, Paula contacted JPL Lawyer, experts in housing disrepair claims.

JPL Lawyer ordered a surveyor to assess Paula’s property, who confirmed it was unsafe for habitation. Barnsley Council, therefore, agreed to carry out the necessary repairs on the tenant’s home and Paula was successfully awarded £1,500. The landlord also agreed to pay an additional £500 compensation in recognition of the delay and distress caused to their tenant.

Commenting on the case, John Lowry, director and head of housing disrepair at JPL Lawyer, said:

“We are delighted that we can help out tenants like Paula.

“For many, housing conditions are at unacceptable levels, and urgent support is needed.

“At JPL Lawyer we do not stop until all the required work is completed. We fight to get the repairs and compensation that our clients are due.”