Know Your Rights: A Tenant’s Guide to Housing Disrepair Claims in the UK

Living in rented accommodation should come with the peace of mind that your home is safe, clean, and well-maintained. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. Across the UK, many tenants are forced to live in homes affected by damp, mould, structural damage, heating failures, and infestations—conditions that can seriously affect their health and wellbeing.

If you are struggling with unresolved property issues, the Housing Disrepair Team is here to help. We specialise in supporting tenants with housing disrepair claims and work tirelessly to hold landlords accountable. Our team ensures that you get the repairs you deserve—and compensation when appropriate.

What Is Housing Disrepair?

Housing disrepair refers to any damage or fault in a rented property that your landlord is legally required to fix. This could include:

• Persistent damp and mould
• Leaking roofs or burst pipes
• Faulty or broken heating systems
• Electrical issues
• Pest infestations such as rats or cockroaches
• Damaged doors, windows, or flooring
• Cracks in walls or ceilings
• Unsafe structures
• 
  

Disrepair not only impacts the quality of life—it can lead to severe health problems, especially for children, the elderly, and those with existing medical conditions.

Landlord Responsibilities Under UK Law

UK landlords are bound by several pieces of legislation that require them to maintain properties in a habitable condition. The Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 and the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 state that landlords must:

• Keep the property structurally sound
• Ensure that plumbing, gas, and electrical systems are safe and functional
• Provide a safe supply of water, heating, and ventilation
• Keep communal areas clean and well-maintained

When a landlord ignores or delays necessary repairs after being notified, they may be violating these laws—and you may be entitled to take legal action.

Common Signs That Indicate Disrepair

It can be easy to dismiss a leaky tap or cracked ceiling as a minor issue. But many small problems are symptoms of larger disrepair concerns. Here are some signs you should never ignore:

• A persistent musty smell or black spots on walls (mould)
• Water stains or peeling wallpaper/paint
• Broken radiators during winter
• Flickering lights or exposed wires
• Cold drafts due to broken windows or doors
• Insect droppings or rodent activity
• Repeated sickness or allergic reactions among household members

If you’ve reported these issues to your landlord and no action has been taken, you have every right to seek legal support.

Why Choose the Housing Disrepair Team?

The Housing Disrepair Team offers expert assistance in filing and managing your disrepair claim. Here’s what sets us apart:

• Free case assessments – We’ll review your situation with no obligation.
• No win, no fee – You don’t pay a penny unless your case succeeds.
• Specialist solicitors – Our legal experts focus solely on housing disrepair.
• Fast-track claims – We act quickly to push landlords into making urgent repairs.
• Nationwide service – We help tenants across England and Wales.

We understand how frustrating it can be to live in substandard housing. That’s why our team is committed to fighting for your right to a safe and comfortable home.

The Claim Process: Step by Step

Making a disrepair claim may sound overwhelming, but it’s a simple process with the right support. Here’s how we help you through it:

• Initial Consultation – Tell us about your housing issues and send any supporting documents.
• Evidence Collection – We’ll help gather evidence, including photos, repair logs, medical records, and more.
• Landlord Notification – We formally notify your landlord and request urgent repairs.
• Negotiation – We negotiate for compensation and repair timelines.
• Court Proceedings (if necessary) – If the landlord fails to respond, we escalate the claim legally.

Most claims can be resolved without going to court. Our aim is to reach the best outcome as quickly as possible.

What Can You Claim For?

Successful claims often result in compensation for:

• Inconvenience and distress caused by uninhabitable conditions
• Damage to personal belongings, such as furniture, clothing, or electronics
• Increased heating or electricity bills due to faulty systems
• Health impacts, like asthma or respiratory infections caused by mould
• Relocation expenses, if you had to move out temporarily

The amount awarded depends on the severity of the disrepair, how long it was left untreated, and the effect on your day-to-day life.

Real Tenant Stories

Many of our clients were unaware of their rights before they contacted us. One family in Birmingham lived with a leaking ceiling and mouldy walls for nearly two years, causing their children to suffer recurring chest infections. After working with the Housing Disrepair Team, they received over £5,000 in compensation and had the repairs completed within weeks.

Another client in Manchester had no heating for an entire winter and was forced to sleep in layers of clothing. Her landlord ignored multiple complaints until legal action was taken. She not only received compensation but also had a brand-new heating system installed within 14 days.

Your Responsibilities as a Tenant

To strengthen your claim and ensure a smooth process, here’s what you should do:

• Report issues promptly in writing (email or letter)
• Keep communication records with your landlord
• Take dated photos/videos of all visible disrepair
• Note health symptoms or medical visits related to the housing conditions
• Cooperate fully with repair inspections or surveys
• Doing your part ensures your legal team can build a strong case on your behalf.

Take Action Today

Living in poor housing conditions is not just inconvenient—it’s unacceptable and unlawful. You deserve to live in a safe and well-maintained home, and your landlord is legally obligated to provide it.

If you’re tired of waiting for repairs that never happen, the Housing Disrepair Team is ready to stand by your side. Contact us today for a free consultation. Let us help you make your home livable again—and get the justice you’re entitled to.