Bournemouth Mum Unable to Cook Due to Flat Leaks that are Very Dangerous

Alison lives in Bournemouth with her family. They have lived there for twelve years. She rents the flat from a private landlord. Water leaks into her kitchen, running down the plug sockets and through the light fixtures.

She cannot use kitchen electronics and hasn’t cooked Christmas dinner in years. One light fixture was already leaking when the smoke alarm started dripping, setting off all the alarms. Water also comes through an outside light.

The flat has become a nightmare for her. She feels frustrated with the situation, as water and electricity are a dangerous mix. The problem has continued for years now, negatively impacting her and her family’s health.

Alison complained in 2023. The landlord sent workers to fix the roof, but the water still leaked into the kitchen, through the lights and the alarm. She begged for them to fix it properly, but the agent said he couldn’t do anything.

They repaired the roof two years ago, but within three months, it leaked again. Alison misses cooking Christmas dinner and spent Christmas at her friend’s house. Her kitchen was unusable in 2023, with no lights or safe electrics.

The Echo contacted the housing agent, but did not receive a response. Alison complained to BCP Council, and the council is looking into the matter. She will meet with MP Tom Hayes to discuss the housing situation.