Private rented property through a estate agent,what happens if either the landlord or estate agent thinks?

[wal49]

work doesn't need to be done, but i the tenant do, what are my rights, or how can i go about getting a independent view point

also, have problem with condensation build up with mould and mildew build up, and have health concerns about this as have a toddler,how do i check if the place is a health environment with spores etc or get someone in and what would they do
property is in the uk

[webb]

The landlord has certain repairing obligations - primarily the 1985 Landlord and Tenant Act that requires the structure (roof / wall / windows) and the heating/hot water to be maintained.

Condensation is usually the tenants responsibility (not always). Unless there is a fault in the building that is allowing the excess moisture in, you need to look at where the water is getting in (laundry / bathing / cooking / breathing!) and why it is staying in the property and not getting out (heating/ventilation).

The environmental health officer at your local council can help if the landlord is failing in his duties.

[coinleain]

Most places are rented as-is. Landlords usually don't do improvements or maintenance unless something is damaged while you are living there. As for mold and mildew, that is caused by improper ventilation and/or excessive moisture. Always run your bathroom fan when in there as well as kitchen fan when cooking. Keep the toilet seat lid closed. Crack your window if boiling water. Get rid of fish tanks, humidifiers, and other sources of moisture. If you want an air quality check, you will have to pay for it. Plus, there is no guarantee that even if the results are bad the landlord will do anything about it.

[aethelbert35]

Definitely CAB for your issues. And as for the mould etc - OPEN some windows. There are occasions when I see some around, and if so, I get going with the Dettol Mould and Mildew spray. Open windows more, and it's gone. This isn't the responsibility of the landlord/agent - and most instructions to tenants will stress that it's up to tenants to keep a good air-flow in properties. Just as would be the case if you owned the property!!

[colfre]

depends what the work is.

as for mould and mildew - open the windows, heat and ventilate and do some housework, that will cure it. Put the washing outside whenever it is not raining and there is a breeze. Strangely it only ever seems to be tenants who complain about serious mould in their properties....

[aethelbert35]

If you want to get good advise on your problem I would make an appointment to see someone at the Citizens advice bureau. If you go to http://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/ you can search for your nearest CAB. They will be able to tell you what rights you have and what you can do about it.