UK Landlord Forum / Life

I have been given a Schedule of Works from the council. Re a large house that I have let to one family.  They have listed the things that I have to do in six weeks that are Hazards. It seems strange that the council can make me do things that are not legal requirements, I have to have fittings on the outside doors so that they can be released without the need of a key and provide a handle on the inward opening side.  I have to renew an outside gate, and put railings and guards on outside steps  It also says there is inadequate fire protection but there are smoke alarms on all floors.  I wondered if anyone else has had experience of this.

"It seems strange that the council can make me do things that are not legal requirements,..."

Not so the council have a statutory right under the Housing Act 2004 s12 (1) to address category 1 and 2 hazards in any dwelling within their area.  In fact s 3(1) puts a postive obligation on the council to do so.

From what you have noted in your post they sound like Cat 2 fire hazard issues - note smoke alarms are not sufficient to meet all fire hazard requirements however had you not had the council place an improvement notice on the dwelling you likely would not have had to do more.  However now you MUST.  Otherwise you will get a prohibition order which will be tears for you. 

Your only course of action is to comply as soon as you can.  Do not skimp and do not cut corners.  Comply and move on.

(I must admist some curiosity about a fitting on the outside that allows a door to be released without a key ?!?!  )

Best of luck.