Living in a rental property should mean having a safe, comfortable, and well-maintained home. But for many tenants in the UK, problems like damp, mould, broken heating, and structural damage are all too common. These issues, known collectively as housing disrepair, can make a home unfit for living and impact your health, finances, and quality of life.
If your landlord fails to address these problems, you may be able to claim compensation and force repairs. This article explains what housing disrepair is, your legal rights, and how to start a claim.
What Is Housing Disrepair?
Housing disrepair refers to any damage or defect in a rented property that a landlord is legally responsible for fixing.
This includes problems with:
- The structure and exterior (roofs, walls, windows, doors)
- Plumbing and drainage systems
- Heating and hot water systems
- Gas, electricity, and fire safety installations
- Sanitation and pest control
When these issues occur, and the landlord doesn’t act after being notified, tenants can file a housing disrepair claim.
Common Examples of Housing Disrepair
Some of the most frequent problems affecting UK tenants include:
- Damp and Mould – Caused by leaks or poor ventilation, leading to health risks.
- Broken Boilers or Heating – Leaving homes without hot water or heat.
- Leaking Roofs and Windows – Resulting in water damage and draughts.
- Unsafe Wiring – Exposed or faulty electrical systems.
- Blocked Drains or Sewage Backups – Making properties unsanitary.
- Infestations – Pests entering through structural defects.
- Structural Damage – Cracks, subsidence, and unsafe flooring.
- Fire Safety Failures – Missing alarms or blocked fire exits.
Each of these can make your property unsafe or uninhabitable, giving you the right to demand repairs and compensation.
What Are Your Rights as a Tenant?
Under UK housing law, every landlord has a legal duty to:
- Keep the structure and exterior in good repair.
- Maintain safe heating, gas, and electrical systems.
- Ensure the property is free from serious hazards such as damp, infestations, and unsafe structures.
If your landlord fails to meet these obligations, you can:
- Report the issue in writing (keep a copy of your letter or email).
- Gather evidence (photos, videos, receipts, and medical reports).
- Contact a housing disrepair solicitor to enforce your rights.
Landlords cannot legally evict you for making a legitimate claim. Retaliatory eviction is prohibited under UK law.
How to Make a Housing Disrepair Claim
If your landlord isn’t responding or is delaying repairs, you can start a housing disrepair claim. Here’s how the process typically works:
Step 1: Report the Problem
- Notify your landlord in writing.
- Allow a reasonable timeframe (usually 14–28 days) for a response.
Step 2: Collect Evidence
- Take dated photos and videos of all damage.
- Keep receipts for damaged belongings or increased bills.
- Get medical records if your health has been affected.
Step 3: Seek Legal Advice
- A specialist solicitor will assess your case for free.
- They can arrange a property inspection by a surveyor.
- Most work on a No Win, No Fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless you win.
Step 4: Claim Compensation
If your claim succeeds, you may receive:
- Rent refunds (25%–100% of rent for the affected period)
- Reimbursement for damaged items
- Compensation for inconvenience, stress, and health issues
Why Act Quickly?
The longer you live with housing disrepair, the more problems can worsen:
- Health risks increase due to damp, mould, or cold homes.
- Repair costs grow as damage spreads.
- Your financial losses rise, with higher energy bills and replacement costs.
Acting quickly protects your health and strengthens your case.
Can the Council Help?
Yes. If your landlord refuses to act, your local council can inspect the property and issue enforcement notices. However, the council cannot secure compensation for you—that requires a legal claim through a solicitor.
Why Choose a Solicitor?
Solicitors specialising in housing disrepair can:
- Force your landlord to carry out repairs.
- Secure financial compensation for your losses.
- Handle all paperwork and court proceedings on your behalf.
With most working on No Win, No Fee terms, there is no financial risk to you.
Start Your Housing Disrepair Claim Today
If you’re living with damp, leaks, broken heating, unsafe wiring, or any other serious repair issue, you don’t have to suffer in silence. UK law is on your side, and you can recover both a safe home and fair compensation.
Gather your evidence, report the issues, and take the next step toward justice.
Contact Us Housing Disrepair today to start your claim and make your home safe again.
