Living with Disrepair? Here’s How to Take Legal Action Against Negligent Landlords
Living with Disrepair? Here’s How to Take Legal Action Against Negligent Landlords
Blog Article
Tenants in the UK are legally entitled to live in homes that are safe, secure, and in good condition. Yet, countless renters still find themselves trapped in properties plagued by persistent damp, mould, faulty heating, leaks, and even pest infestations. When landlords fail to carry out essential repairs, the consequences can be devastating—both physically and emotionally.
The law is on your side. If you’ve reported disrepair and your landlord hasn’t acted, you could be entitled to claim compensation and get the repairs done. With experienced legal support from professionals such as the team at Housing Disrepair, you can take control of the situation and start living in a safe home again.
What Counts as Housing Disrepair?
Housing disrepair refers to poor conditions in a rented property that the landlord is legally responsible for repairing. This can include a wide range of issues, such as:
Damp and black mould
Leaks from roofs, pipes, or ceilings
Defective heating systems or no hot water
Electrical faults or dangerous wiring
Broken doors, windows, or structural damage
Insect or rodent infestations
Unsafe flooring or stairs
Disrepair not only affects your comfort—it can also put your health and safety at risk.
Your Rights as a Tenant
Under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 and the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018, your landlord must keep your home in good repair. They are legally obliged to:
Maintain the structure and exterior of the property
Keep heating and water systems in working order
Ensure electrical systems are safe
Address hazards that may affect your physical or mental health
If you’ve reported issues and they’ve been ignored or only temporarily fixed, your landlord may be violating their legal obligations.
How Housing Disrepair Affects Your Health
Living in a poorly maintained home can take a toll on your well-being. Damp and mould, for example, can worsen asthma, allergies, and other respiratory problems. Faulty heating can lead to cold-related illnesses during winter, while constant leaks and poor hygiene can cause infections or encourage pests.
Children, elderly individuals, and those with existing medical conditions are especially at risk. If your health has suffered due to disrepair, this can strengthen your legal claim—and entitle you to greater compensation.
Can You Claim for Housing Disrepair?
Yes. If your landlord has failed to fix issues that you’ve reported and that are their legal responsibility, you can file a housing disrepair claim. You don’t have to move out to make a claim—you can take legal action while still living in the property.
The process usually involves:
Assessment – Your situation is reviewed to determine if a valid claim exists.
Evidence Collection – You provide photographs, videos, repair logs, and any medical records.
Professional Survey – A surveyor inspects the property to assess the extent of disrepair.
Letter of Claim – A formal letter is sent to your landlord requesting action and compensation.
Negotiation or Legal Action – Most landlords settle before court, but legal proceedings can be initiated if needed.
What Compensation Can You Receive?
Compensation in housing disrepair cases is typically based on several factors, including:
Pain, suffering, and inconvenience
Cost of damaged personal belongings (e.g., furniture, clothing
Medical expenses related to health problems caused by disrepair
Increased utility costs, such as higher heating bills
Loss of enjoyment or use of parts of the property
The amount varies depending on the severity and duration of the disrepair, but claims can range from hundreds to several thousands of pounds.
How Long Do You Have to Claim?
You generally have six years from when the disrepair began to make a claim. For claims involving personal injury, you have three years from the date you were affected. That said, it’s best to act quickly, as delays can weaken your case or allow problems to worsen.
What to Do if You’re Experiencing Housing Disrepair
If you’re dealing with housing disrepair right now, here’s how to protect yourself:
Report the problem in writing to your landlord, council, or housing association. Keep copies.
Document everything — photos, videos, texts, emails, and even health records.
Don’t stop paying rent, unless advised by a legal professional.
Seek medical advice if your health is affected.
Contact a housing disrepair expert who can guide you through the legal process.
Why Work with Housing Disrepair Experts?
Companies like Housing Disrepair specialise in helping tenants hold landlords accountable. They understand the law, the urgency of the situation, and how to present the strongest possible case.
With them, you get:
A free case review
No win, no fee legal representation
- Access to certified surveyors and solicitors
- Regular case updates and dedicated support
Fast action to resolve the issues and secure compensation
Whether you rent from a housing association, local authority, or private landlord, they can help you get the results you deserve.
Take Back Control
No tenant should have to live in unsafe or unhealthy conditions. If you’ve reported housing disrepair and nothing has been done, it’s time to act. With the help of professionals, you can get your home repaired, protect your health, and receive financial compensation for the hardship you’ve endured.
Don’t wait until the situation worsens. Visit Housing Disrepair today and take the first step toward a safer home and fair treatment.
Report this page