A GRANDMOTHER says her life has been made a misery after 10 years living in a council flat riddled with damp and mystery leaks.

Water drips down the damp walls of Vicklyn Noel-Quaye's flat in Tenby Court, Leyton.

She said contractors working for housing manager Ascham Homes had repeatedly failed to find the cause of the problem.

The 49-year-old said she could no longer let her grandchildren visit because of the leaks and damp walss, which cause an intense odour.

She was forced into temporary accommodation while plumbers tried to fix the problem, but the water returned weeks after she moved back.

Ascham Homes staff also re-docorated her bathroom and kitchen, but their work was soon spoiled by the dampness.

Ms Noel-Quaye said: “My grandchildren cannot come round because it is not a healthy environment for them.

“We do not invite people round because it is so horrible and even last Christmas we could not have family over.

“I have vomited more than once when I have gone into the bathroom because of the smell.”

Miss Noel-Quaye has asked to be moved into another property, but she says her request has been rejected.

She made a complaint earlier this month and was told her case was being looked into and she could expect a response within 35 days.

Miss Noel-Quaye added: “In 35 days the problem will be much worse. They are acting as if my case is not urgent, but it is.

“I just want it to end. I cannot live like this.

“I just want them to fix the problem once and for all or move me to a damp-free accommodation.

“I am hard working and I pay my rent on a house that no longer feels like a home and it's as if nobody cares.”

A spokeswoman from Ascham Homes said it was always difficult to pinpoint the exact location of a leak particularly because of the layout of properties in mid-rise blocks such as Tenby Court.

She added: “We are aware of the difficulties experienced by Mrs Noel-Quaye and have been to visit her on several occasions to try to establish the source of ongoing minor leaks to her home.

“We have taken action to resolve other leaks previously and believe the latest one is due to a defect in a neighbouring property.

“We have been able to eliminate two neighbouring properties so far and have an appointment arranged to access the remaining flat in the next few days.

“We apologise for the frustration and inconvenience experienced by Ms Noel-Quaye and hope that we will be able to remedy this problem once and for all.” 

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