Living in a property that’s falling apart is not only uncomfortable—it can be downright dangerous. In the UK, thousands of tenants are forced to live in homes plagued by mould, leaks, broken heating systems, pest infestations, and other serious issues. While these problems are often caused by landlords neglecting their duties, many tenants don’t realise they have the right to challenge these conditions and claim compensation.
If you’re living in unsuitable housing and struggling to get your landlord to carry out essential repairs, it’s time to take action. The Housing Disrepair Team specialises in helping tenants hold landlords accountable and recover compensation for the stress, inconvenience, and health risks caused by uninhabitable living conditions.
What Qualifies as Housing Disrepair?
Housing disrepair refers to any situation where the condition of a rented property has deteriorated due to the landlord’s failure to carry out necessary maintenance. If the disrepair makes your home unsafe or unsuitable to live in, and your landlord refuses to act, you may have a valid legal claim.
Common housing disrepair issues include:
- Severe damp and mould
- Water leaks and plumbing faults
- Defective or broken heating systems
- Unsafe electrical wiring
- Structural issues such as subsidence or cracked walls
- Pest infestations caused by property damage
- Broken windows, doors, or locks
These problems not only affect your comfort but can also have serious implications for your health and finances.
What Are a Landlord’s Responsibilities?
Landlords in the UK are legally required to maintain the structure and essential systems of their rental properties. Under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 and the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018, landlords must ensure that their properties are:
- Structurally sound and weatherproof
- Equipped with functioning heating and hot water systems
- Free from hazardous damp or mould
- Fitted with safe electrical systems
- Secure and protected against pests
They must also carry out repairs within a reasonable timeframe after a problem has been reported. If they fail to do so, they may be breaching their legal obligations.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Disrepair
Tenants who continue to live in substandard conditions often suffer from more than just inconvenience. Disrepair can lead to:
- Health issues, such as respiratory problems, skin conditions, and anxiety
- Increased utility bills, particularly when heating systems are inefficient or broken
- Damage to belongings, like mould-ridden furniture or water-damaged electronics
- Loss of enjoyment and quality of life
When these effects become long-term, you may be entitled to claim financial compensation for the hardship you’ve endured.
What You Can Claim
If your landlord has ignored your requests to fix serious property issues, you may be able to make a housing disrepair claim. With the help of the Housing Disrepair Team, tenants can pursue:
- Repair work at no cost to them
- Compensation for distress, health issues, and reduced quality of life
- Reimbursement for damaged possessions or medical expenses
- Legal costs under a no win, no fee arrangement
Each case is assessed individually, but the right legal support can result in significant financial compensation and a fully repaired home.
How to Start a Housing Disrepair Claim
Starting a claim is simpler than you might think. Most reputable services—like the Housing Disrepair Team—offer a straightforward, no-obligation consultation to assess your case.
Here’s how it usually works:
- Initial consultation – You speak to a legal advisor and explain the issues in your home.
- Evidence gathering – You provide photos, communication with your landlord, and any relevant documents.
- Surveyor inspection – A qualified surveyor assesses your property to document the disrepair.
- Letter of claim – A formal complaint is sent to the landlord demanding action and compensation.
- Settlement or court – Most cases are settled before going to court, but legal proceedings may be necessary in some situations.
No Win, No Fee Legal Help
Legal representation doesn’t need to be expensive. The Housing Disrepair Team works on a no win, no fee basis. This means:
- You won’t pay any legal fees upfront
- You only pay if your claim is successful
- There’s no financial risk to pursuing your case
This makes the process accessible for tenants of all income levels.
Time Limits on Claims
It’s important to act quickly. While housing disrepair claims can typically be made within 6 years of the start of the issue, personal injury claims (e.g. for illnesses caused by mould or damp) usually have a 3-year limit from the date of diagnosis or when symptoms were linked to the property condition.
Tips for Strengthening Your Claim
To give your claim the best chance of success:
- Report the disrepair to your landlord in writing
- Keep copies of all communication
- Take regular photos or videos of the problems
- Save receipts for damaged belongings or additional expenses
- Visit a doctor if your health has been affected
The more detailed and documented your evidence is, the stronger your case will be.
Take Action Now – You Don’t Have to Live Like This
Living with housing disrepair can be draining, both mentally and physically. But you do not have to accept it. UK law protects tenants, and if your landlord is failing in their duty, you are within your rights to demand a safe, habitable home—and seek compensation for your suffering.
Get in touch with the Housing Disrepair Team today to start your claim. With expert guidance and no upfront costs, you can take back control of your home and your health.