Housing Disrepair Claims: What Every UK Tenant Needs to Know

Renting a home in the UK should come with the assurance of safety, security, and basic comfort. Yet, for far too many tenants, that’s not the reality. From mould-infested walls to leaking ceilings and broken boilers, housing disrepair is a serious issue that continues to affect the health, finances, and wellbeing of thousands of families across the country.

If you’re living with housing issues that your landlord refuses to fix, you don’t have to face it alone. The Housing Disrepair Team helps tenants across the UK fight back against negligent landlords. With legal expertise and a no-win, no-fee approach, we make it easy for you to get the repairs—and compensation—you deserve.

Understanding Housing Disrepair

Housing disrepair occurs when a rented property falls into a state of damage or neglect that affects your health, safety, or comfort. Common problems include:

• Damp and mould on walls, ceilings, or floors
• Leaking pipes or roofs causing water damage
• Broken heating systems or lack of hot water
• Infestations of pests such as rats, mice, or cockroaches
• Damaged windows and doors that impact ventilation and security
• Cracked walls, ceilings, or flooring posing hazards to occupants

These issues are not only inconvenient—they can be downright dangerous. Mould spores can trigger respiratory issues, water damage can lead to structural instability, and faulty heating systems can leave tenants freezing in winter.

Your Landlord’s Legal Duty

Under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, landlords are legally required to keep their rental properties in a good state of repair. This includes:

• The structure and exterior of the property (e.g., walls, roof, windows, doors)
• Heating and hot water installations
• Sanitation facilities like sinks, baths, and toilets
• Water, gas, and electricity supplies

Landlords also have responsibilities under the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018, which requires that the entire property is fit for human habitation from the beginning and throughout the tenancy.

When a landlord fails to carry out repairs after being informed of an issue, they are in breach of these responsibilities—and you may be entitled to claim compensation.

Why Tenants Delay Taking Action

Despite the serious nature of housing disrepair, many tenants choose not to speak up. Here’s why:

• They fear eviction or harassment from landlords
• They aren’t sure if their situation qualifies
• They don’t know how to navigate the legal system
• They feel overwhelmed by the thought of pursuing a claim

This is exactly why services like the Housing Disrepair Team exist—to simplify the process and provide support, so you can stand up for your rights with confidence.

When Should You Make a Housing Disrepair Claim?

You should consider making a claim if:

• You’ve reported the issue to your landlord, but no action was taken
• The disrepair has existed for a long period (weeks, months, or even years)
• The condition of your home is affecting your health or wellbeing
• Your belongings have been damaged due to the disrepair
• The living conditions are making daily life difficult or dangerous

Even if repairs have been carried out recently, you may still be eligible to claim compensation for the time you were forced to live in poor conditions.

The Claims Process Explained

The Housing Disrepair Team follows a clear, step-by-step process to ensure your case is handled efficiently:

• Free Assessment – We review your case and advise whether you’re eligible to claim.
• Gathering Evidence – We help collect photos, videos, repair logs, and medical records if needed.
• Notifying Your Landlord – We send formal notice to your landlord with details of the disrepair.
• Issuing Legal Proceedings – If your landlord fails to act, we proceed with court action on your behalf.
• Achieving Results – We aim for swift repairs and fair compensation for your suffering and losses.
• We handle most claims on a no win, no fee basis, so there’s no financial risk to you.

What Can You Claim For?

If your claim is successful, you may be awarded compensation for:

• Damage to personal items (clothes, furniture, appliances, etc.)
• Medical issues caused or worsened by the disrepair
• Loss of enjoyment of your home
• Higher utility bills due to faulty heating or insulation
• Temporary relocation costs if the property becomes uninhabitable

The amount you receive depends on the severity of the issue, how long it lasted, and the impact it had on your life.

Real Lives Affected by Disrepair

Tenants all over the UK have shared their stories of struggling to live in dangerous, neglected homes. From single mothers dealing with chronic damp and mould, to elderly individuals without working radiators during freezing winters—these are not isolated incidents.

Many of them didn’t know they could get help until they found the Housing Disrepair Team. With expert advice and legal representation, they were finally able to hold their landlords accountable and restore their quality of life.

Tips for Tenants: Protecting Your Rights

Here are a few proactive steps you can take if you’re facing housing disrepair:

• Document everything – Take photos and videos of the damage.
• Report the issue in writing – Email or write to your landlord to create a paper trail.
• Keep communication records – Save messages, letters, or calls regarding your complaint.
• Track the timeline – Note how long it’s been since you reported the issue.
• These actions not only support your legal case but also increase pressure on landlords to act quickly.

Take the First Step Today

If you’ve been ignored or left in unsafe conditions, don’t suffer in silence any longer. You have the legal right to live in a safe, habitable home—and support is available.

The Housing Disrepair Team is ready to fight for your rights. Reach out to us today for a free consultation and let our specialists guide you through the process. Whether it’s compensation, repairs, or both—we’re here to help you take control of your home and your future.