Anyone with experience of huge repair costs in flats?
Hi,
I bought a flat about 18 months ago with a Skipton 100% first time buyer mortgage. It’s in a 1950s high rise in central Edinburgh, and since I’ve lived here, a number of very expensive building repairs have come to light (neglected roof needing full repair, asbestos removal from basement, replacement of heating systems…) These all predate me moving in, but the flat was “sold as seen” by probate solicitors.
Per my deeds I’m responsible for my flat’s share in these repairs, which I accept and support because we all have a shared responsibility.
Edinburgh council is our factor and is organising these works.
My questions is not “how can I get out of paying” but how can I get support with paying, or what systems exist which can help me?
I’m in my late 30s, a single parent, and a full time teacher. I have no savings, and a 100% mortgage which has built up no equity, and a personal loan (as I had the original 50s bathroom refitted after moving in).
I wrote to the council to ask about payment plans etc and never got a response. AI suggested I speak to Shelter, and Shelter suggested legal advice. I can’t afford legal advice but am also not within the eligibility for legal aid. I also don’t know that it’s a legal issue - the council hasn’t done anything wrong in ordering the works, it’s just that I physically can’t conjure up the £20k-£60k (depending which quotes are chosen) to pay right now. I’ve checked my home insurance and it doesn’t include any of these historic issues that have just come about through wear and tear over decades.
Has anyone been in this position and can share how things went for them?
I’m going to call the bank to see if I can extend my mortgage, but I doubt it as I’m at the top of the borrowing for my single income. I also plan on going to the next council and residents’ meeting in a few weeks so I can try to get a response from a council rep about what to do. I’ve not been to one of these before as I’m autistic and it’s quite an overwhelming prospect, but I’m not sure what else to do.
Thank you so much!