Housing organisation ‘inundated’ as cold snap bites

A national housing organisation representing tenants in rented accommodation said today it has been ‘inundated’ with calls for help amid the ongoing cold snap.

“Over the past few days, our advice centres in Dublin, Cork and Galway have been inundated with calls from tenants who are facing problems brought about by the current cold snap,” said Threshold director Bob Jordon.

“Water pipes are freezing, for example, leaving some tenants with no running water. In other cases, the central heating systems in rented properties simply cannot cope with the cold weather and have broken down completely.

And many tenants living in sub-standard accommodation are now suffering because of the poor insulation in their homes, with draughts coming in through old windows and doors, and inadequate heating systems in place.”

According to Threshold, tenants experiencing serious problems with water or heating supplies should contact their landlords immediately. The organisation is also advising tenants to take photographs of problem areas and keep detailed records of all contact made with landlords.

“We would urge any tenant experiencing difficulties to contact their nearest Threshold centre for advice,” said Bob Jordan. “If necessary, we can also help tenants to find alternative accommodation.

“We are also calling on landlords to check on their tenants during this period of extreme cold. It would be particularly important for landlords to contact vulnerable tenants, such as elderly people or tenants who live alone.”