Being charged for boiler fix?

Question

Hi! I am a tenant in a 5 bedroom house, living with 4 of my friends. We 'supposedly' have free callout for any problems we get, but a few weeks ago our boiler stopped working.

The hot water was flicking on and off, and it was practically impossible to get a shower - the heating for the whole house was pretty screwed too.

So, we asked for some help. They sent a guy round, and fixed it (after 3 visits) because he had to order a new part or something.

Now, 2 weeks later, we are being charged - fair enough, however, we're being charged £40, and seeing as it's not our house, and it's supposed to be free, I'm not sure we should pay. The reasoning for it is:

"Tenants had over-pressurised the boiler causing it to lock out".

Is this really a valid reason? The only thing we can change on the boiler is when it switches on and off. If we put it on too much, does that over pressurize it or something?

So, should we complain, or just pay the money?

Thanks in advance for any replies!

Answer 1

If you opened up the boiler and screwed with it, it would be appropriate to give you the bill. You do need to review your rental agreement.

From what you describe it sounds like an equipment problem. Normally this is the landlords issue, and you are already paying an accrual towards the equipment depreciation.

Sounds like he's looking for pocket money to me.

Answer 2

First check your lease agreement. Chances are though your landlord is just trying to 'stick it to you'.
You shouldn't be held resposible for his boiler malfunction.