Other

Tenants to stop paying rent over persistent cracks

By Anna O’neill

Copyright bbc

Tenants to stop paying rent over persistent cracks

In statement, Peabody said: “We understand that cracks are really worrying and have written to residents to reassure them their homes are safe. This was confirmed by structural engineers who inspected the building again today.”

It said a few years ago, it dealt with the original subsidence by removing the tree causing the problem and carried out repairs but at the end of last year, cracks began to reappear.

“Our insurers have been monitoring the situation, and we believe nearby trees may now be the cause,” the statement added.

“A Tree Preservation Order would need to be lifted by the council before we can remove them. To do that, we need to be certain the trees are the problem. Our insurer’s final monitoring report is expected next month, then we can apply to the council to remove the trees.”

Peabody has sent its own surveyors to look again at both the subsidence and other issues residents have reported, they said.

“We’ll be tackling all urgent repairs straight away and will carry out permanent repairs once the trees have been removed.

“We know we’ve not always communicated as clearly as we should have and are determined to put that right while working towards a lasting solution. Our local team will be visiting Hanger View Way to speak to residents every week.”