Help with tenants who have reported a safety issue but refuse access
I served a section 21 eviction notice before 1st May, which the tenant was not happy about. They then found an electrical safety issue - a junction box under some cupboards with no lid and live terminals exposed. I was obviously horrified by this and said I would arrange an electrican immediately. The tenant said that he would not allow me access to fix the problem until the council environmental health team have been to inspect the property. 3 days and several messages later and I'm no further on. The tenant hasn't given a date when the council will come. They have offered a settlement for an extortionate amount of money to allow access for the electrician and then leave by the date on the section 21 notice. Obviously I'm concerned for his safety, and any potential fines from the council.
Has anyone been in a similar situation before? Can I do anything legally to gain access to make the property safe again?
EDIT: Thank you to everyone who has offered advice. I will update you in due course.