Repair concerns? Speak to us first
Claim farmers: what you need to know
Many of us have had a phone call or letter asking about ‘the car accident you were in’ and offering to look at compensation. We’re now seeing a rise in customers being approached by claims farmers, offering to pursue compensation for issues like damp, mould, faulty heating, plumbing problems, and electrical hazards.
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We’ll look at what claims farmers do and why but first it’s important to say: if you are a rental customer and have any repair needs, please report them to us. We want to resolve any issues – and if for any reason you’re not satisfied with how your repair is dealt with, we have a robust complaints process that aims to get the best outcome. And if you feel it doesn’t, we will provide information about how to report this to the Housing Ombudsman.
Contact us:
Online: www.bpha.org.uk/my-account
WhatsApp: 0330 1000 272
Email (for non-urgent repairs): Repairs@bpha.org.uk
Call: 0330 100 0272
What’s a claims farmer?
A claims farmer is a person or organisation that encourages people to pursue a claim against their landlord for compensation, even when the reason may not be legitimate. They don’t actually take action – they often sell the claims and customer’s details to a ‘no win, no fee’ solicitor, who will then pursue a case.
Claims farmers frequently pretend to be from ‘the Housing Maintenance Department,’ ‘Repairs Team,’ or even the Council or bpha, but they usually do not provide a legitimate company name or contact number.
Why be wary of claims farmers?
- The solicitor’s aim is to benefit from having their legal fees paid by bpha, but legal costs may arise even if claims are withdrawn, and any compensation you receive could be less than the total
- Claims can delay getting the repair done - and some solicitors advise customers refuse access for repairs, leading to potential court costs for tenants even on a no-win-no-fee basis
- You don’t know how your personal data will be used or shared.
Points to consider
- Talk to us first
- Be vigilant – if you decide to speak with a claims farmer, check they’re a legitimate company. Ask for identification and check out independent recommendations and reviews
- Take time to think before making big decisions or signing any documents – again, talk to us first, or speak with Citizens Advice for independent guidance.