Threshold, the national housing organisation, has experienced a sharp spike in calls from tenants facing problems in rented accommodation as a result of the current cold snap. That’s according to Bob Jordan, Director of Threshold.
Speaking today (02.12.10), Mr. Jordan said: “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.
“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.”
Threshold’s advice centres can be contacted on the following numbers:
Dublin: 01-6353600.
Cork: 021-4278848.
Galway: 091-563080.
Further information about the organisation is available at www.threshold.ie.
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About Threshold
Threshold was founded in 1978 and is a not-for-profit organisation whose aim is to secure a right to housing, particularly for households experiencing the problems of poverty and exclusion. Its main concentration of work is within the rented sector. The organisation operates a national office, based in Dublin, and two regional offices.
In 2009, the organisation provided advice and representation to almost 22,000 people.
