The laminate flooring in our house has lifted and the landlords are trying to say it is our fault. It has lifted right by the lounge door leading to the hall, as well as the step board between the hall and lounge. Can anyone advise me how this has happened and why and perhaps direct me to an appropriate website so I can use this in my defence.

Simon Goodwin, March 2009

Ring Steve at Laminate Solutions 01244 314404 im sure he will explian the problem (which is not your fault)

Mick, June 2009

Defence? You have no defence to make...

Just how does the landlord intend to show that you caused this problem I wonder? Was it when you actually walked on the floor or was it that night you stupidly brought the elephant home from the zoo?

The problem belongs to the Landlord - write a formal letter to him asking him nicely to get it repaired and keep a copy of the letter - it is not up to you to explain how the fault may have happened - you are merely a tenant not an expert in plumbing or electrical work or boiler maintenance or floor laying or house maintenance - you pay him rent to do these things on your behalf.

After a month write him a second letter asking when he will see to the work and contact your local council - they will have a department who can advise and even intervene.

You do not really need to know why or how this has happened - that's for the Landlord to discover.

Peccavi, March 2009