Landlords - Renters' Rights?

From http://www.bbc.co.uk/consumer/your_rights/court.shtml

Is a verbal agreement legally binding?
What are my rights regarding a verbal contract made over the telephone - is it legally binding even if I wasn't given correct information? TW, Northampton

A verbal contract will be binding.

Generally, there are no formal requirements which have to be satisfied to create a binding contract. Limited exceptions include contracts for the sale of land and consumer credit agreements. Consequently, a verbal contract will be binding.

The main problem with oral contracts is proving exactly what was said and agreed. Generally, it's one person's word against another's.

However, if you can prove that you were given a false assurance and/or information on which you based your decision to enter into the contract, you may have an action for misrepresentation and/or breach of contract which would entitle you to damages.

Also, contracts made purely at a distance, over the telephone, for example, may be cancellable under the Consumer Protection (Distance Selling) Regulations 2000. It really depends on what was the subject matter of the particular contract. If the regulations do apply, a buyer has a cancellation period of at least seven days but it may be longer.

From what I've been told at accommodation talks by the housing department at my uni, I'm pretty sure the landlord has a duty to repair anything that is damaged. Sorry I can't be any more help than that! Hope you sort it out.

edit: aah beat me to it! should have refreshed the page before i replied.