Living in a rented property should come with the peace of mind that your home is safe, warm, and habitable. But for many tenants across the UK, that’s not the reality. Persistent issues like damp and mould, water leaks, pest infestations, or broken heating systems are not just inconvenient—they’re a serious health and safety concern. If your landlord is failing to make essential repairs, you could be eligible to make a compensation claim for housing disrepair.
At Housing Disrepair Team, we help tenants stand up for their rights and claim the compensation they rightfully deserve. Here's everything you need to know about making a claim.
What Is Housing Disrepair?
Housing disrepair refers to a situation where rented property falls below acceptable living standards due to unresolved damage or deterioration. Under UK law, landlords are legally obligated to maintain the structure and exterior of the property, as well as ensure the supply of utilities like gas, electricity, and water.
Common examples of disrepair include:
- Damp and mould affecting walls and ceilings
- Water leaks from pipes, roofing, or ceilings
- Broken windows, doors, or locks
- Faulty boilers and heating systems
- Infestations of rodents or insects
- Unsafe flooring or exposed wiring
If your landlord has been notified of these problems and fails to act within a reasonable time, they may be in breach of their legal obligations.
Can I Claim Compensation for Housing Disrepair?
Yes. If the disrepair in your rental property has caused you inconvenience, health problems, damage to your belongings, or made parts of your home unusable, you may be entitled to compensation.
A compensation claim for housing disrepair typically covers:
- General inconvenience (e.g., loss of heating or hot water)
- Health issues caused by mould, damp, or cold environments
- Damage to personal property, such as mould-damaged clothes or electronics
- Increased expenses, such as higher heating bills or the cost of temporary accommodation
The amount of compensation depends on the severity and duration of the issue and how much it has impacted your day-to-day life.
What Are My Landlord’s Responsibilities?
Landlords are required by law (as outlined in the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985) to:
- Keep the structure and exterior of the property in good repair
- Maintain heating and hot water systems
- Ensure sanitary fittings (like basins, sinks, and toilets) are functional
- Fix leaks, blockages, and electrical issues
- Respond to disrepair complaints in a reasonable time
If your landlord ignores these obligations after being notified of a problem, they are liable—and that opens the door to a valid housing disrepair claim.
How Do I Start a Compensation Claim for Housing Disrepair?
Here’s a step-by-step guide to making a successful claim:
1. Report the Problem
Always report disrepair issues to your landlord or letting agent in writing. Keep a record of all communications, including dates, messages, and responses (if any).
2. Document the Damage
Take photos and videos of the disrepair. Keep evidence of any damaged belongings or medical issues that result from the conditions.
3. Give Reasonable Time to Fix It
Allow your landlord a fair opportunity to fix the issue. What qualifies as "reasonable" depends on the severity—for example, a broken boiler in winter should be fixed urgently.
4. Seek Professional Help
If your landlord still fails to act, you can contact legal professionals or housing disrepair specialists like Housing Disrepair Team to assess your case. They’ll guide you through the claims process and help you understand your rights.
What Can I Expect During the Claims Process?
When you start your claim through a professional housing disrepair service:
- A surveyor may inspect your property to assess the damage
- Legal notice will be served to your landlord to resolve the issue
- Your case may be settled out of court, or proceed to court if necessary
- If successful, you’ll receive compensation, and repairs will be mandated
Most cases are settled without going to court, especially if the evidence is clear.
Is There a Cost to Making a Claim?
At Housing Disrepair Team, we operate on a no-win, no-fee basis. That means there are no upfront legal fees, and you only pay if your claim is successful. This ensures that all tenants—regardless of financial status—can access justice and live in decent, livable conditions.
How Long Do I Have to Make a Claim?
The standard time limit to make a housing disrepair claim is 6 years from the date you first reported the issue. However, it's best to act quickly, as delays can affect the strength of your claim and the amount of compensation you receive.
Why Choose Housing Disrepair Team?
We specialize in helping tenants across the UK hold negligent landlords accountable. Whether you're dealing with cold, mouldy conditions or serious structural issues, we can help you:
- Secure timely repairs
- Receive fair compensation
- Restore your right to a safe, habitable home
Our team of experts makes the process stress-free and straightforward, guiding you every step of the way.
Final Thoughts
No tenant should have to live in a home that’s unsafe or uninhabitable. If your landlord has ignored repeated repair requests, it's time to take action. A compensation claim for housing disrepair not only holds them accountable but also helps restore your living conditions and peace of mind.
Don’t suffer in silence—contact Housing Disrepair Team today and get the support you deserve.
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