• I HAVE been left “in the dark” by the Peabody Landlord system. Literally. For more than two weeks I have been lightless in my kitchen due presumably to some electrical problem.

Peabody insisted that I replace part of the fittings and the light bulb which happens to be a fluorescent light tube.

Had I refused to so do, then Peabody might well have imposed a £160 charge in respect of the contractor fees should the faulty bulb be the problem, as tenants are responsible for replacing light bulbs.

When refurbishment of our kitchens took place some years ago, we/I was led to believe that fluorescent light tubes were obligatory despite tenants protestations.

At no point were we ever instructed in how exactly we are supposed to replace the light bulbs and we have no staff on site who could help since their services were dispensed with many years ago.

We are left with the ubiquitous call centre system whose efficiency leaves a lot to be desired. Several emails to the relevant call centre requesting information produced little information of any consequence.

It is especially difficult to do any cooking or other normal kitchen activities and I am dependent on the light in the hall reflecting into the kitchen. Just as well I don’t rise too early in the morning!

Being a senior person I would have thought that some consideration might have been extended my way but this situation does not qualify as an emergency. The mind boggles as to what exactly does qualify as an emergency!

No contractor will attend my house until March 6, by which time I shall be in the third week of “lightlessness”. I have contacted my MP who thankfully has taken the matter up with the landlord.

I WALKER
Dalgarno Gardens, W10