Structural defects at Places for People
If you rent from Places for People and your structural defects problem has been left unfixed, the law sets clear deadlines for getting it put right, and you may have a claim. Here is what Places for People must do and how to act.
Why this matters
Places for People's diversified business model (placemaking, leisure, finance) means repairs are not always the loudest internal priority. Tenants report being shunted to call centres rather than local housing officers, keep written records of every conversation and ask for incident reference numbers each time. Specifically for structural defects, Collapse risk, life-threatening in extreme cases is a recognised health risk under Section 11(1)(a), Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 + Defective Premises Act 1972, and Places for People have a legal duty to act.
The legal anchor
Section 11(1)(a), Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 + Defective Premises Act 1972 gives you the right to repairs in a reasonable time. Under Awaab's Law (in force October 2025), Places for People have a significant-hazard duty under Awaab's Law: 10 working days to investigate, then 5 working days from the end of that investigation to complete the safety work from the moment you reported the problem.
What to gather
- Photograph cracks with a ruler or coin for scale
- Photograph the same crack 2 weeks apart to show movement
- Get a structural engineer's letter if you can, costs ~£200, often recoverable
Contact: Places for People complaints team (visit their website for the current address)
FAQs
Can I claim against Places for People for structural defects?
Yes. Places for People have a legal duty under Section 11(1)(a), Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 + Defective Premises Act 1972. If you've reported the problem and they've ignored you, you can claim compensation and force the repair. How much you could get depends on how long it went on, how serious it was, and any effect on your health.
How long do Places for People have to fix structural defects?
Under Awaab's Law, Places for People must act within a significant-hazard duty under Awaab's Law: 10 working days to investigate, then 5 working days from the end of that investigation to complete the safety work. If the problem is dangerous (24-hour emergency category), they must act immediately.
What if Places for People have already inspected but done nothing?
An inspection alone doesn't satisfy Awaab's Law. The clock keeps ticking until the repair is done. Keep records of every inspection date and outcome.
Do I need a solicitor to claim against Places for People?
You don't have to use one. You can pursue a complaint yourself. We offer a no-win-no-fee panel of SRA-regulated solicitors. Largest UK housing/regen provider by portfolio. Origin Housing joined as subsidiary April 2024. C1 consumer grade, top tier.
Related
Closing thought
Largest UK housing/regen provider by portfolio. Origin Housing joined as subsidiary April 2024. C1 consumer grade, top tier. Being a large landlord does not excuse ignoring Awaab's Law. If your home is making you sick, we can help. Call 0800 030 4669 or start your claim online.
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