A Birmingham council tenant has voiced frustration after facing persistent flooding problems in his Highgate flat for more than ten years, leaving him without the use of his shower for over three weeks.
Farai Gwavava, who resides in Brinklow Tower, described how water has repeatedly poured dangerously from the lights in his flat during flooding incidents that have recurred annually. Following a recent flood last month, the council removed many of the damaged lights, leaving several rooms in darkness.
Mr Gwavava is still waiting for permanent repairs to be carried out and said the recurring issues continue to cause significant distress to his daily life. “Please council, sort it out,” he pleaded. “I’ve been a good tenant and have done everything properly. It’s time they did their part.”
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He explained that the bath water has remained stagnant for three weeks, preventing him from showering. “I haven’t showered for the past three weeks. The only alternative I thought of was using a gym, but I don’t want to have to sign up just to shower. So, I’m not washing and staying in the dark today,” he said, expressing growing anxiety over the situation.
The flooding problem has left visible damage throughout the flat’s ceilings, with no clear timeline for repairs. Despite the council’s previous visits to remove lighting and confirm the source of water damage as coming from the upstairs flat, the issue persists.
“It’s been over ten years. I’m tired and can’t seem to get the help I need,” Mr Gwavava said. “They said they are waiting for the lights to dry out. I don’t know what I’m going to do when I return to work next week. The delay has been too long.”
He stated that several lights remain out, including those in the hallway and other rooms, and he is uncertain if further flooding will occur. He also highlighted concerns over a change of contractors by the council, which has resulted in new contractors lacking access to previous records of his case, complicating efforts to resolve the issue.
“This has been a constant problem, and this is the first time I’ve asked for help. I’m seriously at my wit’s end,” he added. “I spent an entire day waiting for repairs, but my bath still isn’t fixed.”
Efforts have been made to contact Birmingham City Council for a statement regarding the matter, but no comment has been provided at this time.