Disrepair
Houses that are not reasonably fit for human habitation can be a source of considerable misery for the unfortunate families who live in them. Not only can poorly maintained houses be cold, wet and unpleasant, they can be a cause of social embarrassment and they can even endanger health with an increased risk of asthma and other respiratory illnesses. However, tenants are entitled to homes of a minimum legal standard. If you rent from a council, housing association or most private landlords, you are entitled to expect a house that conforms with the Housing (Scotland) Acts and Building Regulations presently in force. Your home must be 'tenantable and habitable' and 'wind and watertight'. If it is not, then you may be able to force your landlord to carry out essential repairs. In some cases you may even be entitled to compensation. LSA's Court Department, a team of seven lawyers and one paralegal, are experienced in bringing litigation for specific implement (a court order ordering a landlord to carry out repairs) and for damages (the legal word for compensation).