Is a misted window deemed an issue?

Is a misted window deemed an issue?

8:57 AM, 24th August 2023, About 8 months ago 9

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Would you regard one pane of misted glass in a total window span of 8 panes as an issue? Would it be deemed an issue in so far as the council would be concerned about it? Is there a legal requirement to replace it?

I would not regard some condensation between the glass that meant the window was ‘defective’ in any way as it opens and closes etc. so this is more of an aesthetic issue.

I would make a note of this for future attention when other work at the property may be necessary (to reduce contractor costs) or if the window misting gets worse or the window actually ‘fails’ in some other meaningful way like wood frame degrades etc but don’t believe immediate attention is warranted.

Others thoughts?

Many thanks

DSR


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Comments

Fed Up Landlord

9:51 AM, 24th August 2023, About 8 months ago

The misted unit means the unit has failed and it's heat retaining ability has reduced It's a fairly simple matter that depending on the size of the unit costs about £100 to replace.

You may get a tenant who complains about " a draught" or sees it as an aesthetic issue, but it's nothing major. It would be picked up on an EPC though if one was due.

BRACKS Mead

10:05 AM, 24th August 2023, About 8 months ago

The council have issues with something that affects health. This doesnt, yet.

The Housing Act 2004, has no legal requirement on misty windows, if thats its only defect.

RoseD

10:30 AM, 24th August 2023, About 8 months ago

It's defective. At some point will have to be replaced. You just putting off the inevitable. Harsh frost or intense sunshine may crack the glass eventually if left and could be considered a safety hazard as weakens the glass panel when being cleaned or any pressure applied to it. Had to replace two in my new build let which is flippin annoying but quality not what it was.

The Forever Tenant

12:21 PM, 24th August 2023, About 8 months ago

When I first moved into my current property there was a misted window in the kitchen.

It didn't bother me in the slightest, it's one of those things that happens. I didn't even bring it up to the landlord. It appeared that he noticed it himself and said he would replace even after I said that I was fine with it.

From what I understand they are pretty cheap and quick to replace so a relatively quick fix in the grand scheme of things.

Reluctant Landlord

15:29 PM, 24th August 2023, About 8 months ago

to be honest I have had this but not looking to replace my misted window as I would not feel its defective at this stage. With costs being diverted to pay for effing SL's, paying out for this is causing a dent. It will have to wait until next year to be replaced.

Simon F

16:58 PM, 24th August 2023, About 8 months ago

It's not an issue Council could take action on through HHSRS, but if it's an HMO, they could conceivably take action referring to Management of Houses in Multiple Occupation Regulations 2006. HMO Manager must keep windows in good order amongst many other things. If an HHSRS inspection, I'd make a Subject Access Request to get a copy of the HHSRS report their original notes, and all internal correspondence on the subject - make them regret being so ridiculous.

Peter Collard

21:38 PM, 24th August 2023, About 8 months ago

I usually wait till I have 3 windows faulty and then do them as otherwise the overheads exceed the window costs. Tends to be south facing windows due to high temperature variations.

EPC Wiltshire

7:21 AM, 25th August 2023, About 8 months ago

Incorrect. The working of an element is not taken into account on an EPC, just its presence.

Jessie Jones

15:05 PM, 26th August 2023, About 8 months ago

Nottingham City Council licensing regard misted windows as a fault that needs rectifying as they claim that it breaches HHSRS as the window is not thermally efficient. However, it is likely that it is still more thermally efficient than single glazing and there is no requirement (yet) for rented properties to have double glazing, as indeed many properties in conservation areas are not allowed to have double glazing.
So IMHO this is another case of councils bullying landlords, as if they decide to impose a fine then you have all the costs of resisting this at a First Tier Tribunal, and councils are not afraid of wasting vast amounts of tax payers money on legal teams to try and force their views through.

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