In recent years, the conversation around housing disrepair has grown louder. While many discussions focus on the physical dangers—such as mould, damp, leaks, and structural issues—there’s another equally serious concern that often gets overlooked: the mental health impact of living in poor housing conditions.
This article explores how mould affects not only your physical well-being but also your emotional and psychological state. More importantly, we explain what you can do about it—including how to claim compensation, and how National Claims can connect you with experienced solicitors to help you through the process.
How Housing Disrepair Affects Mental Health
Living in a home riddled with damp and mould can be a daily source of stress. Over time, this constant exposure can lead to depression, anxiety, and a feeling of helplessness.
According to a study by Shelter, 1 in 5 adults in the UK say housing issues have negatively impacted their mental health. This includes problems like persistent damp, mould, or cold homes.
Moreover, the NHS acknowledges that poor housing is directly linked to poor mental health outcomes, especially in vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and people with existing health issues.
What Is Mould and Why Is It Dangerous?
Mould is a type of fungus that grows in damp and poorly ventilated areas. It often appears as black or greenish patches on walls, ceilings, or behind furniture. The most common type found in homes is black mould (Stachybotrys chartarum), which releases spores into the air that can be hazardous when inhaled.
Although mould is commonly associated with respiratory problems, the psychological toll it takes is just as severe. Imagine waking up every day in a cold, damp room, constantly smelling mildew, or worrying about your children’s health—this mental burden builds up and can cause serious emotional distress.
The Legal Responsibilities of Landlords
Under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, landlords in the UK are legally required to keep the structure and exterior of a property in good repair, and ensure that installations for heating, sanitation, and water are working properly.
Additionally, the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 ensures that rented homes must be free of serious hazards such as damp and mould. If a landlord fails to take action, tenants have the right to take legal steps.
More specifically, Section 11 of the Landlord and Tenant Act puts the responsibility on landlords to repair any part of the building that causes damp or mould due to disrepair. If the issue continues, tenants may be able to take action under Section 82 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990, which deals with statutory nuisances like mould.
How Much Compensation Can You Claim?
The amount of compensation you may be entitled to depends on various factors, such as:
- The severity and duration of the mould problem
- The extent of damage to personal belongings
- Any medical evidence of physical or mental health issues caused
- Evidence of distress and inconvenience
On average, compensation for housing disrepair claims in the UK can range from £1,000 to over £10,000, depending on the individual circumstances.
At National Claims, we work with experienced solicitors who assess each case individually. They’ll help calculate how much you may be entitled to and guide you through the process, step by step.
How National Claims Can Help
We understand that dealing with mould and housing disrepair can be overwhelming—especially when it starts to affect your mental health. That’s where we come in.
At National Claims, we will:
✅ Connect you with a specialist solicitor
✅ Help gather the necessary medical and property evidence
✅ Ensure your claim is filed correctly and on time
✅ Operate on a No Win, No Fee basis
You shouldn’t have to suffer in silence. Let us help you take control of your living conditions and your health.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I claim if I’m a council or housing association tenant?
Yes. Whether you rent privately or through the council or housing association, you have legal rights. Landlords must maintain your property to a safe and liveable standard.
2. What kind of evidence do I need?
You should collect:
- Photos of the mould or damp
- Medical records if your health has been affected
- Doctor’s letters connecting your health issues to the housing condition
- Any communication with your landlord about the problem
3. How long do I have to make a claim?
Generally, you have up to six years to make a claim from the date the disrepair began affecting you. However, the sooner you act, the stronger your case will be.
4. Will making a claim affect my tenancy?
It shouldn’t. The law protects tenants from being evicted for taking legal action over disrepair. Retaliatory evictions are unlawful.
5. Do I need to pay upfront?
No. Most of the solicitors we work with offer a No Win, No Fee service, so you only pay if your claim is successful.
Final Thoughts
Living in a home filled with mould isn’t just unpleasant—it can be deeply harmful, both physically and mentally. You deserve a safe and healthy space to live in. If your landlord has ignored your complaints or failed to take action, you have the right to claim compensation.
Take the first step today. National Claims can put you in touch with a trusted solicitor who will help you reclaim not just your compensation—but your peace of mind.
Contact National Claims today, and we will put you in touch with an expert solicitor who can guide you through the claims process.📞 Call us now free 0800 029 3849 or 📩 Submit an online enquiry to speak to our team. Your safety and well-being matter, and we’re here to help.
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