A TENANT told to clear her South Yorkshire home in April for refurbishment says her delight has turned to despair – because she is still waiting for work to begin.
Barbara Aitchison, aged 44, of Doncaster Place, East Dene, Rotherham, was told to put all non-essential items in a steel crate and was left with just a few pots and pans, her bed, wardrobe and three-piece suite.
The packed crate was taken away to be put into storage – but while the delays continued, Barbara asked Rotherham Council's housing management company 2010 Rotherham if it could be returned so she could have access to her possessions.
Barbara said she was heartbroken when it was brought back with some of the contents smashed – but council insurers have refused to pay her any compensation for the damage.
The disabled mum-of-one said: "I was quite excited at first, looking forward to the work because I've had trouble with repairs for 10 years.
"I was told to put everything but the bare essentials into the crate. These included photographs, crockery, equipment like hair straighteners and furniture such as cupboards. But nothing happened. 2010 Rotherham wouldn't tell me when work was to start and the crate came back with items like crockery smashed.
"Nobody has accepted responsibility.
"I want the public to know how badly I'm being treated."
2010 Rotherham said the delays to work at Mrs Aitchison's home happened because their surveyor decided she only needed a rewire to meet the Decent Homes standard rather than a full revamp, which includes a new kitchen and bathroom.
The project has been held up because she decided to appeal against the decision, which is not due to be heard until next month.
A spokeswoman for 2010 Rotherham added: "A claim of £4,000 for damage to items stored in a loaned container was submitted by Mrs Aitchison.
"This claim was submitted to Rotherham Council's independent insurance company. Following a visit by the insurance company's loss adjustor to Mrs Aitchison's home to assess any damage, this claim was refused in full."
The company did not reveal why the claim had been refused.
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