We are often asked to visit and assess possible sub-standard housing conditions. Most complaints are about rental housing so this information will provide both landlords and tenants with a guide to some basic standards for rental housing.
What to do if you feel your rental home is substandard
No matter how minor or serious your concerns regarding your dwelling may be, initially you must inform your landlord. You need put your concerns in writing and request they reply providing details of their intended action. Contact us if:
- Your house meets the definition of dangerous or insanitary and you are unhappy with your landlord's action or response
- You are unsure whether or not your dwelling meets the dangerous or insanitary definition
The Residential Tenancies Act 1986
The Residential Tenancies Act 1986 outlines the landlord's responsibility to provide their premises in a reasonable state of cleanliness and to maintain it in a reasonable state of repair. It also places some responsibility on tenants to keep the premises reasonably clean and tidy and to notify the landlord as soon as possible of any damage or need for any repairs.
Every tenant should know their rights and obligations under the Residential Tenancies Act 1986 and the role of Tenancy Services in landlord / tenant relationships and disputes.
The DCC's role
We can only assist with housing complaints where the property in question is either dangerous or insanitary. The definitions for these two terms are outlined in the Building Act 2004 and included below. All other complaints should be addressed to your landlord and Tenancy Services. We do not get involved in disputes over lease agreements or rental prices. If you have concerns about these matters, you should contact Tenancy Services on 0800 836262 or their website in the related information section below
Dangerous
Likely to cause injury or death (whether by collapse or otherwise) to any persons in it or to persons on other property or damage to any other property.
Insanitary
So situated or of such construction or in such a state of disrepair as to be offensive or likely to be injurious to health; or its provisions against moisture penetration are so insufficient or in such a defective condition as to cause dampness in the building or in any adjoining building; or it is without a supply of potable water adequate for its intended use; or it has inadequate sanitary facilities for its intended use.