Housing defects, etc

Question 1

What is the role of owners / occupiers / providers / LA in the maintenance, repair and improvement of housing?

Answer 1

All parties are responsible for maintaining and improving houses or accommodation

Question 2

What funding methods are you aware of?

Answer 2

In the private sector, remortgaging or securing a loan, existing funds. A local authority can offer different types of help with home improvements. It will have its own rules about the types of help it will offer, and about the conditions you must meet in order to qualify for help.

Question 3

What legislation covers housing maintenance?

Answer 3

Landlord & tenant Act, the housing Act, health & safety at work act, building regulations

Question 4

What property related H&S issues are you aware of?

Answer 4

Asbestos, slips, trips, falls, electric shock, gas, falling structures

Question 5

What are the key principles of the L&T relationship?

Answer 5

The landlord agrees to let the tenant live in the property, and the tenant agrees to pay rent and follow certain rules.

Question 6

Talk me through your understanding of housing policy and law relating to maintenance and repair.

Answer 6

I am not overly familiar with the technical requirements other than that a landlord must provide a safe and habitable property. I will need to consult relevant RICS or government guidance.

Question 7

How have you assessed and advised on residents’ needs?

Answer 7

I carry out initial discussions with my clients to talk through their requirements, this helps to establish a basis of the report subject to whether they are carrying out any significant improvements or refurbishment works

Question 8

How have you assessed clients’ needs in relation to the housing market?

Answer 8

I advise clients when repairs are likely to be excessive or expensive and that they should obtain costs. Not carrying out repairs can result in a lower fee when selling