Living in a home that’s unsafe, unhealthy, or falling apart can severely impact your quality of life. Unfortunately, thousands of tenants across the UK are affected by housing disrepair—ranging from mould and damp to serious structural issues and broken heating systems. When landlords neglect their legal responsibilities, tenants have the right to demand action, including repairs and compensation.
Many renters don’t realise that help is readily available. The expert team at Housing Disrepair supports tenants throughout the UK in understanding their rights, pursuing claims, and ensuring landlords are held accountable.
What Is Housing Disrepair?
Housing disrepair refers to damage or faults in your rental home that your landlord is legally required to fix. If these issues go unresolved, they can put your health, safety, and comfort at serious risk.
Common examples include:
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Damp and mould on walls, ceilings, and around windows
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Leaking roofs, pipes, or appliances
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Broken heating systems or boilers
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Electrical hazards, such as faulty wiring or sockets
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Cracked walls and ceilings
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Rodent or insect infestations
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Broken doors, windows, and locks
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Structural issues compromising the stability of the home
If your landlord has ignored repeated reports of these problems, they may be in breach of contract and liable to legal action.
Your Landlord’s Legal Duties
UK law requires landlords—whether private, housing association, or local authority—to maintain their properties in a state that’s safe and fit to live in. Key legislation includes:
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Landlord and Tenant Act 1985
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Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS)
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Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018
Landlords must ensure the following are in good working order:
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Structure and exterior of the property
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Water, gas, and electricity systems
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Heating and hot water supply
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Sanitary installations (sinks, toilets, baths)
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Fire safety systems
Failure to address disrepair after being notified can result in serious consequences for landlords—including legal claims and court orders.
Can You Make a Housing Disrepair Claim?
If your landlord has neglected necessary repairs, you may be eligible to file a housing disrepair claim. You can claim if:
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You rent from a housing association, council, or private landlord
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You’ve reported the disrepair and given reasonable time for it to be resolved
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The issue has not been fixed or continues to cause problems
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You’ve suffered inconvenience, property damage, or health issues
Most claims must be filed within six years of the issue occurring, or three years if your health has been affected.
Types of Compensation You Could Receive
When you submit a housing disrepair claim, you may be entitled to:
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General damages – For inconvenience, stress, and disruption to daily life
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Special damages – For medical bills, damaged possessions, and additional living costs
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Repairs – A legally binding requirement for your landlord to fix the property
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Reimbursement – For any temporary accommodation or personal repairs you’ve paid for
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Health-related compensation – If the disrepair has made you or a family member ill
Each case is unique, and compensation is assessed based on how long the disrepair lasted and how severely it affected your life.
Health Impacts of Poor Living Conditions
Living in disrepair can lead to both physical and emotional health problems. This is especially true for children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing medical conditions. Common health concerns linked to housing disrepair include:
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Respiratory issues from mould and damp
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Skin infections or allergic reactions
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Stress, depression, and anxiety
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Injuries from faulty electrics or broken fixtures
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Exacerbated asthma or other chronic illnesses
If your health has deteriorated due to disrepair, be sure to document symptoms, keep medical records, and mention these in your claim.
How the Claim Process Works
Tenants often assume making a claim is complicated—but with professional help, it’s simple and stress-free. At Housing Disrepair, the process typically includes:
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Free Case Review – Experts assess your situation and advise on your options.
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Evidence Collection – You provide photos, communications with your landlord, and medical records if applicable.
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Surveyor Inspection – A professional inspects your property and creates a detailed report.
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Letter of Claim – A formal notice is sent to your landlord requesting action and compensation.
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Legal Proceedings (if necessary) – If your landlord refuses to cooperate, your legal team will proceed to court.
Most claims are settled before going to court, and nearly all are handled on a no-win, no-fee basis.
Why Tenants Often Avoid Making Claims
Despite their rights, many tenants still avoid taking legal action because they:
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Fear retaliation or eviction
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Think the process is too complex or costly
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Don’t know they are legally protected
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Underestimate the impact of poor housing on their health
The reality is that the law is on your side. Landlords cannot legally evict you for reporting disrepair or making a valid claim. Support from services like Housing Disrepair ensures that your case is handled professionally, without risk or upfront cost.
Why Choose Housing Disrepair?
Housing Disrepair is dedicated to helping tenants across the UK stand up for their rights. Here’s why they’re trusted by thousands:
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Specialised legal experts in housing disrepair
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No-win, no-fee guarantee
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Free consultation and quick case assessments
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Nationwide coverage
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High success rate and satisfied clients
Their team manages every aspect of your claim, from inspection to court representation, making the process as smooth and effective as possible.
Take Action Today
Don’t suffer in silence. If your home is in disrepair and your landlord isn’t listening, you are within your rights to demand change. Reach out to Housing Disrepair today and take the first step toward a safer, healthier living environment—and financial compensation for the hardship you’ve endured.
