• MY 93-year-old neighbour reported a leak to his property before Christmas. The plumber called and said his water tank needed a ballcock replacing.

I am involved because access is through my flat; no other way. The plumber said he would return with the new part, but called later to say he could not.

Camden rebooked him for January 6, after Christmas and new year. He didn’t turn up so was rebooked for January 19.

I asked if it could be brought forward, but was given an even later date, January 26. Unbelievable!

The council called the day before the appointment to reconfirm time, 8am-noon, which was a surprise but thoughtful.

However the time came and went, and no show. I enquired again to be told the plumber had been, and it had been repaired. How so? They will check and revert.

Another call… apparently he came via back door. The water tank is three floors up, only access is through my flat.

They then gave me a new appointment. But if it has been repaired, why the new appointment for February 15?

I’m now told, it will take one to two days to repair – though the plumber reported repairs already done in one morning.

Something does not add up. And the damage will continue while they get their stories sorted out. Just get the repairs done, Camden.

MEI SUEN, NW1