Every tenant in the UK has the right to live in a home that is safe, secure, and free from major defects. Yet, thousands of renters continue to face issues such as damp and mould, pest infestations, water leaks, broken windows, and faulty heating systems. When landlords fail to fix these problems in a reasonable time, it’s more than an inconvenience—it’s a violation of your legal rights.
This guide will help you understand exactly what housing disrepair is, what your rights are as a tenant, and how to make a housing disrepair compensation claim if your landlord has neglected their responsibilities.
What Counts as Housing Disrepair?
Housing disrepair refers to any damage or problem in your rental property that makes it unsafe, unhealthy, or unsuitable to live in. These issues may include:
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Damp and mould
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Leaking roofs or ceilings
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Faulty plumbing or electrical wiring
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Broken heating systems
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Damaged windows or doors
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Pest infestations
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Structural damage (e.g., cracked walls or unstable floors)
If any of these problems have been reported and not resolved, your landlord may be held accountable for neglecting their legal duties.
Your Landlord’s Legal Responsibilities
Under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, your landlord is legally required to:
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Keep the structure and exterior of the home in good repair
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Maintain installations for heating, gas, electricity, sanitation, and water supply
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Ensure the property is fit to live in and free from health hazards
They are responsible for most repairs unless the damage was caused by the tenant’s own actions (e.g., misuse or negligence). If your landlord fails to address disrepair, you may be entitled to take legal action.
When Can You Make a Housing Disrepair Compensation Claim?
You can consider making a housing disrepair compensation claim if:
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You’ve reported issues and your landlord ignored or delayed action
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The disrepair has caused harm to your health
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Your personal belongings have been damaged (e.g., mould-damaged clothes, furniture)
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You’ve experienced financial losses or stress due to the disrepair
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The living conditions are unsuitable or unsafe
It’s important to act promptly, especially if your health is at risk or if the damage is getting worse over time.
How to Report Disrepair to Your Landlord
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Notify in Writing: Always report issues in writing, preferably by email or letter. This provides a record of your complaint.
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Include Photos and Details: Describe the issue clearly and attach photographs as proof.
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Allow Time for Repairs: Give your landlord a reasonable period to fix the problem—usually 14 to 28 days, depending on severity.
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Keep All Communication Records: Save all emails, messages, and photos.
If your landlord still doesn’t take action, you have the right to escalate the issue.
What Evidence Do You Need for a Claim?
To strengthen your housing disrepair compensation claim, gather the following:
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Dated photos of the damage
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Medical records if your health has been affected
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Copies of all written complaints to your landlord
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Receipts for any damaged items
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Reports from a local authority or environmental health officer (if involved)
This documentation will help support your case and show the extent of the disrepair and its impact.
Who Can Help with Your Claim?
You don’t need to go through the legal process alone. There are professional services and claim management companies that specialise in housing disrepair cases. These experts can:
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Assess your case
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Gather evidence
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Handle all communication with your landlord
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File and manage your claim
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Work on a no-win, no-fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless your case succeeds
This can take the pressure off and ensure your claim is handled efficiently and professionally.
What Can You Claim Compensation For?
A successful housing disrepair compensation claim can include:
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General damages: For stress, inconvenience, and poor living conditions
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Special damages: Reimbursement for damaged belongings or extra costs like heating
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Repair orders: Legal orders requiring your landlord to make repairs
In some cases, tenants have received thousands of pounds, especially when landlords ignored problems over a long period.
When Should You Take Legal Action?
You should consider legal action when:
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The disrepair poses a serious risk to your health or safety
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Your landlord refuses to communicate or act on your complaints
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The damage is affecting your daily life or causing financial loss
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Local authorities are unable to intervene effectively
Legal action is not only your right—it also holds landlords accountable for neglect.
Final Thoughts
Living in a home with unresolved disrepair is not something you have to accept. As a tenant in the UK, you have legal protection and the right to safe, habitable housing. If your landlord ignores necessary repairs, don’t wait. Start gathering your evidence and consider filing a housing disrepair compensation claim today.
Contact us for a free consultation or to check you are eligible for housing disrepair claim or not. You may also contact us for a free advice.
