We’re aware that some companies can contact residents about making a disrepair claim.

Over the past year we have seen a big increase in disrepair claims who often make promises that they often do not achieve for their client. These companies contact residents through social media, leaflets, and phone calls and they can make promises of financial compensation.

While this may seem enticing, these companies are not all that they seem. They may not always be honest and up front with you which can result in unexpected costs and even taking longer for your home to be repaired.

In many cases, residents will find themselves with legal costs to pay even if they later withdraw their claim often making the action not worthwhile for the resident.

While you have every right to claim for disrepair, we want to make sure you are fully informed and not being put at risk of high hidden costs from these companies.

What are the hidden risks?

Hidden costs
These companies will probably say that they operate on a “no win, no fee” basis. But often there can be hidden costs including if you were successful with much of the money being spent on your legal fees.

They usually also charge a fixed cost upfront to take out an insurance policy to cover the cost of your claim. This lump sum can be a significant amount.

Any potential compensation you receive from a claim may reduce to cover solicitor fees or legal costs (ours and yours, if the claim is unsuccessful).

Fees if you change your mind
If you do change your mind for whatever reason, these companies will often charge you a fee for stopping the claim. This may be for surveys or for the insurance premium you were encouraged to take out.

If you do go to court, if your case is dismissed then you may have to pay Trident’s legal costs which could cost you thousands.

It takes a long time to resolve
Some claims can take years to resolve, and you may have to appear in court to give evidence as part of the process, which can be distressing.

Sometimes they will advise you to not allow us in to complete these repairs, leaving your home in a worse condition.

You could be in breach of your tenancy agreement
During this time, most companies acting on your behalf will advise you not to allow access to us to visit your home to do any repairs. This will put you in breach of your tenancy agreement with us.

As your landlord, it’s our responsibility to ensure your home is safe and kept in repair, so we’ll attempt to visit your home anyway having given you notice of our visit. If there’s a health and safety risk, we may request a court injunction to gain urgent access to do the work.

It affects other services we provide.
Defending disrepair cases is extremely expensive for us. Any money we spend on these claims takes away from us being able to invest in repairs, improving your homes, or our essential and charitable services. It can also affect your rent and service charge costs.

How can we help?

If you have an issue in your home, you can report a repair to us by calling 0300 123 1113 or by using our online portal.

If you are unhappy with our service, you can make a complaint by emailing complaints@tridentgroup.org.uk or calling 0300 123 1113.

We are here to help and will do everything we can to make sure your home is somewhere you are proud to live in.

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