Is Your Landlord Ignoring Property Issues? Here's What You Need to Know About Housing Disrepair

Living in a rented property should come with the assurance that your home is safe, comfortable, and properly maintained. However, this is not always the reality for many tenants across the UK. Whether it's persistent damp and mould, structural issues, broken heating systems, or rodent infestations, many tenants are left dealing with conditions that are not only unpleasant but also hazardous to health and wellbeing.

If you've been putting up with these issues without action from your landlord, it’s time to understand your rights concerning housing disrepair. Tenants are legally protected, and there are clear standards that every landlord is expected to meet. Failing to maintain a habitable living environment is not just irresponsible—it can also be unlawful.

What Counts as Housing Disrepair?

Housing disrepair refers to any problem with the condition of a rented property that hasn't been addressed within a reasonable time after being reported. These issues can significantly impact your quality of life and even pose a threat to your health. Some of the most common examples include:

• Damp and mould growth

• Faulty electrics or unsafe wiring

• Leaking roofs or broken guttering

• Pest infestations (mice, rats, cockroaches)

• Broken windows, doors, or locks

• Defective plumbing, including leaks or blocked pipes

• Non-functioning heating or hot water systems

These problems are not mere inconveniences. Left untreated, they can cause respiratory issues, accidents, or significant damage to personal belongings.

Landlords’ Legal Responsibilities

UK law is clear when it comes to landlord obligations. Under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, landlords must:

• Keep the structure and exterior of the property in repair

• Ensure all installations for heating, water, gas, and electricity are safe and working

• Make necessary repairs in a reasonable time after being informed

• Maintain the property in a condition fit for human habitation

The Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 reinforces this by giving tenants the legal right to take landlords to court if they fail to uphold their responsibilities.

When Can You Make a Claim?

You may be eligible to make a housing disrepair claim if:

• You’ve reported issues to your landlord and no action has been taken

• The problem has existed for an unreasonable amount of time

• The disrepair has caused damage to your health or belongings

• Your daily life has been disrupted because of poor living conditions

You don’t have to tolerate dangerous or uncomfortable conditions. Whether the damage is structural, environmental, or functional, you have the right to a safe home.

Types of Compensation You Can Claim

If your claim is successful, you could be entitled to compensation for:

• General inconvenience due to the ongoing issues

• Health problems, such as skin conditions or breathing difficulties caused by mould

• Damaged property, including furniture, clothes, and electronics

• Higher utility costs due to inefficiencies like broken heating systems

• Costs of temporary accommodation if you had to leave your home

Compensation varies based on the severity and duration of the disrepair, as well as how it has impacted you and your household.

Steps to Making a Housing Disrepair Claim

Here’s how the typical process works:

1. Document the Issues
   Take clear photos or videos of the damage. Keep records of all correspondence with your landlord and any expenses you’ve incurred.

2. Notify Your Landlord
   You must give them reasonable time to fix the issues after you report them.

3. Seek Professional Advice
   If nothing is done, speak to a housing disrepair specialist who can evaluate your claim and offer guidance.

4. Inspection and Report
   An independent inspection may be carried out to support your claim with technical evidence.

5. Submit a Letter of Claim
   A legal representative will send a formal letter to your landlord, outlining the disrepair and your demands.

6. Negotiate or Take Legal Action
   If the landlord fails to respond, your solicitor can take them to court. Most cases settle before reaching this stage.

Why Working with Specialists Matters

A key part of succeeding in a disrepair claim is working with professionals who understand this area of law. Teams like the one at The Housing Disrepair have helped countless tenants across England and Wales achieve successful outcomes—getting repairs done quickly and securing rightful compensation.

Benefits of working with housing disrepair experts:

• No win, no fee services

• Experienced solicitors with in-depth legal knowledge

• Faster resolution of your complaint

• Supportive case management throughout the process

• Peace of mind knowing your case is handled properly

What Tenants Should Never Ignore

Ignoring disrepair issues doesn’t just affect your comfort—it can affect your health and safety. Common consequences include:

• Respiratory illnesses from damp and mould

• Injury risks from loose flooring or broken handrails

• Mental stress caused by living in substandard conditions

• Financial losses from damaged personal items

Early intervention is crucial. The longer these issues persist, the worse they get—and the more likely they are to cause long-term harm.

How to Get Started

If you think you have a valid housing disrepair claim, don’t delay. The law is on your side, but evidence and documentation are key to success. Begin by gathering proof, notifying your landlord, and contacting a housing disrepair expert to assess your situation.

The team at The Housing Disrepair is ready to help you start your claim and take control of your housing situation. With their experience and support, you can achieve the safe, habitable living environment you deserve.