Every tenant in Stockport has the right to live in a safe home. When electrical systems or gas installations are not properly maintained, the consequences can be extremely dangerous. From shocks and burns to fires and gas leaks, faulty housing systems place both residents and their families at serious risk.
If you have suffered an accident or illness due to unsafe electrics or gas in your Stockport home, you may be entitled to make a claim. Understanding your landlord’s responsibilities and your legal rights can help you take action to protect your health and seek compensation.
Common hazards from faulty electrics and gas in housing
Unsafe housing conditions often arise when landlords fail to carry out essential repairs or routine checks. Common dangers in Stockport homes include:
- Faulty or exposed wiring that leads to electric shocks or fire hazards
- Overloaded circuits caused by outdated systems
- Broken or unsafe plug sockets and switches
- Gas leaks from poorly maintained boilers or cookers
- Carbon monoxide poisoning from inadequate ventilation or faulty appliances
- Fires caused by defective electrical appliances or gas systems
These risks are not only a breach of safety standards but can also result in devastating injuries or long-term illness.
The health impact of unsafe housing conditions
Accidents involving electricity or gas can cause serious harm, including:
- Electric shocks leading to burns, heart complications, or even fatal injuries
- Fires resulting in property damage and severe burns
- Carbon monoxide poisoning causing headaches, dizziness, nausea, and, in extreme cases, death
- Long-term respiratory conditions linked to prolonged exposure to gas leaks
- Psychological trauma after living in unsafe or damaged housing
The physical and emotional toll of these injuries can disrupt work, education, and family life.
Landlord responsibilities in Stockport
Landlords in Stockport, whether private, housing association, or local council, are legally required to ensure that homes are safe. Their responsibilities include:
- Carrying out regular electrical safety checks and repairs
- Ensuring that gas appliances, pipes, and flues are inspected annually by a Gas Safe registered engineer
- Providing tenants with gas safety certificates
- Responding promptly to reports of faults or hazards
- Maintaining heating and hot water systems in safe working order
If your landlord has failed to meet these duties and you were injured as a result, they may be liable for compensation.
When can tenants make a claim?
You may be able to make a claim for compensation if:
- You reported faulty electrics or gas issues to your landlord, and they failed to act
- You or a family member suffered an accident or illness caused by unsafe systems
- Your property was damaged by fire or leaks linked to poor maintenance
- You experienced financial losses due to temporary relocation or medical expenses
Tenants are entitled to live in homes that are free from avoidable risks. When landlords neglect their duties, legal action may be necessary.
Evidence needed to support your claim
Strong evidence is essential in housing safety cases. Useful forms of proof include:
- Photographs of faulty wiring, damaged sockets, or gas leaks
- Copies of letters, emails, or texts reporting the hazard to your landlord
- Medical records showing injuries or illness caused by unsafe conditions
- Fire service or gas engineer reports confirming the cause of the accident
- Witness statements from neighbours or family members
- Records of expenses such as medical bills, replacement furniture, or hotel stays
The more evidence you can gather, the stronger your claim will be.
How much compensation can tenants receive?
Compensation for accidents caused by faulty electrics or gas in Stockport varies depending on the severity of the harm suffered. Factors considered include:
- The pain and suffering caused by injuries or illness
- The cost of medical treatment and rehabilitation
- Loss of earnings if you were unable to work
- The value of damaged belongings or property
- Psychological distress caused by the incident
- Long-term health complications requiring ongoing care
Every case is unique, and a solicitor can assess the likely value of your claim based on your circumstances.
Time limits for making a housing safety claim
The time limit for personal injury claims caused by unsafe housing is generally three years from the date of the accident or the date you first realised your illness was caused by unsafe conditions.
For property damage alone, claims may be subject to a six-year limitation period. Seeking legal advice as soon as possible is always best, as evidence is easier to collect while events are recent.
Local context: Housing safety in Stockport
Stockport has a mix of older housing stock and newer developments. Older homes, in particular, may contain outdated electrical systems or poorly maintained gas appliances. Local landlords and housing providers are under a duty to carry out inspections and repairs to prevent these hazards.
If you live in Stockport and have been injured or suffered losses due to faulty electrics or gas, you are not alone. Many tenants face these issues, and legal remedies are available to hold landlords accountable.
FAQs
Can I claim if I am still living in the property?
Yes, you can still bring a claim while living in the property. Compensation may cover both the harm caused and any repairs or improvements needed to make the property safe.
What if my landlord says the problem was my fault?
Landlords sometimes argue that damage was caused by tenants. However, if the fault is linked to poor maintenance, lack of inspections, or unsafe installations, the responsibility lies with the landlord. Evidence such as engineer reports can clarify the true cause.
Speak to Marley Solicitors about housing safety in Stockport
If you have suffered an accident or illness due to faulty electrics or gas in your Stockport home, Marley Solicitors can help. Our team has experience supporting tenants across Stockport and Greater Manchester who have faced unsafe housing conditions.
We can guide you through the claims process, gather the evidence you need, and hold negligent landlords accountable. With our support, you can pursue compensation to cover your injuries, losses, and the stress caused by living in unsafe housing.
Contact Marley Solicitors today to discuss your housing safety claim in Stockport and take the first step towards protecting your rights and securing a safe home environment.
