Chelsea resident housed in Travelodge after ceiling collapse

Dega Salad, 43, was housed in a Travelodge after the ceiling of her housing association flat in Chelsea, West London, collapsed on September 23. The yoga teacher had made repeated requests to housing association Peabody to fix cracks that had appeared in her ceiling, which she first noticed in 2024.

Ms Salad moved into the property in 2022. She told MyLondon that the cracks began to spread from the bathroom and from leaks upstairs, eventually reaching her living room. She reported the issues in 2024 and again in 2025, but stated that no action was taken. Surveyors had visited the property, but she reported no further progress.

The ceiling collapsed while Ms Salad was sitting on her sofa. The incident resulted in damage to her furniture, including her sofa and television, as well as her carpets and yoga equipment. The fire brigade attended to help clear the debris. Ms Salad stated she did not have the funds to cover the cost of the damage.

Peabody arranged for Ms Salad to stay in a Travelodge. She explained that remaining in the Kensington and Chelsea area was important for her work as a pilates and yoga instructor. She was unable to return to her flat until October 2, having been out of her home from September 23.

Ms Salad also reported that she was informed by Peabody that the locks would be changed if she returned to the flat while contractors were present. She stated she had not received any correspondence regarding compensation for the incident.

A spokesperson for Peabody said: “We’re sorry about the problems Dega has been having. We’re carrying out the repairs needed, and looking into the other concerns raised. We'll speak with Dega directly.” The housing association confirmed they are undertaking the necessary repairs and are investigating the other issues Ms Salad has raised.