Everyone deserves to live in a home that is safe, warm, and well-maintained. Unfortunately, for many tenants across the UK, that is not the reality. Issues like damp and mould, water leaks, pest infestations, broken heating systems, and damaged windows or doors can make a property uninhabitable. If your landlord has failed to address these problems, you may have the legal right to start a housing disrepair claim—and get the repairs and compensation you deserve.
At Housing Disrepair Team, we specialise in helping tenants across the UK who are living in unsafe or poorly maintained homes. Our housing disrepair team experts are committed to supporting you every step of the way, from identifying your legal rights to handling your claim on a no-win, no-fee basis.
What Is Housing Disrepair?
Housing disrepair refers to a rented property that is in poor condition due to the landlord’s failure to carry out necessary repairs. Under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, it is the landlord’s legal responsibility to ensure that the property is fit for human habitation. This includes maintaining:
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The structure and exterior of the building
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Heating and hot water systems
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Drainage, plumbing, and sanitation
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Ventilation and insulation
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Windows, doors, and locks
If your landlord has been informed of a problem and fails to act within a reasonable time, you may be eligible to make a claim for both the repair and financial compensation.
Common Issues That May Qualify for a Claim
Many tenants live with conditions they don’t realise could be the basis of a valid housing disrepair claim. Common issues include:
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Damp and Mould: Not only unsightly but a serious health risk, particularly for children and the elderly.
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Water Leaks and Flooding: These can damage belongings, weaken structural integrity, and promote mould growth.
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Pest Infestation: Rats, mice, and insects can carry disease and are often a sign of neglected maintenance.
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Broken Heating Systems: Especially dangerous during winter, and a clear breach of landlord duties.
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Faulty Windows and Doors: Compromising both security and energy efficiency.
If any of these problems have persisted despite your complaints, your landlord could be held liable.
Your Rights as a Tenant
As a tenant, you are protected under UK law. If you’ve reported disrepair and your landlord has failed to act within a reasonable timeframe, you have the right to:
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Request the local council to inspect the property
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Instruct legal professionals to file a housing disrepair claim
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Receive compensation for inconvenience, health impacts, and property damage
You are not required to tolerate poor living conditions, especially when your health and safety are at risk.
Steps to Start a Housing Disrepair Claim
Starting a housing disrepair claim may feel daunting, but with the right support, the process is straightforward. Here’s how to get started:
1. Report the Problem in Writing
Always notify your landlord or letting agent in writing about any issues. Include photos and detailed descriptions. This creates a paper trail, which will support your case later.
2. Give a Reasonable Timeframe for Repairs
Most landlords are expected to address serious disrepair within 14 to 28 days. If the issue is urgent—like no heating or a water leak—it should be dealt with more quickly.
3. Document Everything
Take regular photographs of the disrepair, keep records of all communication with your landlord, and note any effects on your health or lifestyle.
4. Seek Medical Attention (if necessary)
If the condition of your home is affecting your health, seek medical advice and request documentation of your condition. This is especially important in cases involving damp, mould, or pest infestations.
5. Contact Housing Disrepair Team
Once you’ve gathered your evidence, contact Housing Disrepair Team. Our experts will review your situation, confirm if you have a valid claim, and begin legal action if appropriate. We handle everything—from contacting the landlord to processing your claim and ensuring the repairs are completed.
What Can You Claim Compensation For?
A housing disrepair claim can help you recover costs and losses you’ve suffered due to your landlord’s negligence. You may be able to claim compensation for:
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Pain and suffering caused by living in unsuitable conditions
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Damage to personal belongings such as clothes, furniture, or electronics
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Medical expenses related to health issues caused by the disrepair
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Inconvenience and distress for the time spent in poor living conditions
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Loss of amenity if you’ve been unable to use part of your home (e.g., unusable rooms due to mould or leaks)
Compensation is assessed based on the severity of the disrepair, the duration of the issue, and the impact it has had on your life.
Why Choose Housing Disrepair Team?
At Housing Disrepair Team, we understand how stressful and frustrating it can be to deal with a negligent landlord. That’s why we offer a no-win, no-fee service—so you don’t pay a penny unless your claim is successful. Our team has years of experience handling housing disrepair cases and will work hard to ensure that your home is made safe and habitable again.
We pride ourselves on offering friendly, professional, and fast support. From your initial consultation to the final resolution of your case, you’ll always know where you stand.
Final Thoughts
Living in unsafe housing conditions is not something you have to accept. If your landlord is ignoring necessary repairs and your home is affecting your health or safety, you have legal rights—and support is available.
Don’t wait for things to get worse. If you’re ready to take action, also get in touch with housing disrepair team Coventry today and let us help you reclaim your right to a safe and comfortable home.
