An elderly council tenant has lodged a formal complaint against the local authority after being without hot water for 10 days.
Mrs Linda Crookston, 68, of Glebe, Logierait, who suffers from arthritis, described her predicament as “awful” and has claimed she was forced to “strip wash” by boiling kettles in order to bathe her body.
The pensioner says Perth and Kinross Council had arranged for three different plumbers to come out to her council cottage since the leak in a roof space was discovered last Tuesday.
On Thursday, the problem was finally rectified but Mrs Crookston stressed she still wants the council to “change their policy” on such matters, claiming it should not have taken 10 days to fix.
“This all began when I discovered a leak in the loft and reported this to the council who sent someone around quite quickly,” she said.
“However, there was some problem with the first workmen and their contract was terminated.
“Then another contractor was appointed but he refused to come out and fix what was wrong.”
Ms Crookston claims another plumber then visited the rural cottage and suggested a new pressure valve would sort the problem.
However, he came out on Wednesday but found out the valves were the wrong size so ordered more.
Mrs Crookston wants answers from the council as to why it took so long to fix.
“It is totally unacceptable as it’s been so cold lately – the weather has been awful,” she added.
“I had to have a strip wash by using water from boiling kettles. I suffer from arthritis and it was terrible being without hot water for 10 days.
“I have lodged a formal complaint with Perth and Kinross Council and have also contacted John Swinney MSP.”
Mr Swinney, who represents Perthshire North, confirmed he has raised the matter with the local authority’s director of housing and social work, and described the time taken to restore Mrs Crookston’s hot water as “disappointing.”
“Having to go without hot water for over a week – at any time of the year – would be a challenge for anybody,” he commented.
“It will be particularly difficult for a pensioner in such cold weather.
“I would hope for an early resolution that will allow Mrs Crookston to be able to access hot water once again, as soon as possible.”
A council spokesperson said: “We are happy to confirm the issue with this property has been resolved.
“Unfortunately, the repair was delayed due to an incorrect part being provided by our supplier initially.
“We have apologised to the resident for the inconvenience this delay caused.”
