Concerns Raised Over Response to Potentially Dangerous Boiler Issue

Concerns have been raised over the response of Rochdale Boroughwide Housing (RBH) to a reported boiler issue which tenants believe posed potential safety risks within the property.

Rochdale Boroughwide Housing

According to the tenant, the issue involved a leaking boiler, which they feared could present a number of hazards, including electrical risks, potential mould growth, and, in rare circumstances, the risk of carbon monoxide exposure if faults were to develop further.

It is understood that the tenant reported the issue to RBH, however they allege that the initial response did not reflect the seriousness of the situation.

The tenant claims they were advised by a manager, identified as Ellie, to place a bucket beneath the boiler to catch leaking water as a temporary measure, in order to prevent potential electrical issues.

While temporary fixes can sometimes be used in urgent situations, the tenant has expressed concern that the response appeared to downplay what could develop into a more serious safety issue if left unresolved.

It is further claimed that, following continued concerns, a contractor named Paul was eventually sent to the property. However, the tenant states that the decision was made to switch off the hot water supply for 24 hours.

The tenant has raised additional concerns regarding this action, noting that disabled and vulnerable children were present in the household, and that the temporary loss of hot water created further difficulties during an already stressful situation.

Housing safety standards require landlords and housing associations to ensure that heating systems and boilers are maintained in a safe condition, with prompt and appropriate action taken where risks are identified—particularly where vulnerable residents may be affected.

This situation arises amid continued scrutiny of housing conditions in the borough, following the widely reported case of a two-year-old child who died as a result of prolonged exposure to mould in a social housing property managed by RBH. The case led to national attention and calls for improved housing standards and accountability.

The tenant believes this latest incident raises serious concerns about whether enough is being done to ensure tenants are kept safe and provided with adequate health and safety standards, particularly for vulnerable households.

The tenant has called for the matter to be addressed properly, stressing the importance of ensuring that residents feel safe within their homes and that potential hazards are treated with the seriousness they deserve.

Manchester Today has approached RBH for comment.

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