If you’re living in a house in disrepair, it’s more than just an inconvenience—it can seriously affect your health, wellbeing, and legal rights. Whether it’s persistent mould, faulty electrics, or a leaking roof, tenants across the UK are increasingly facing poor living conditions. Fortunately, the law is on your side. This blog will walk you through what housing disrepair is, how to spot it, and most importantly, how to take action.
And if you’re considering making a claim? National Claims can help by putting you in touch with experienced solicitors who specialise in housing disrepair law.
What is Housing Disrepair?
Housing disrepair refers to any damage or faults in a rental property that make it unsafe or unfit for tenants to live in. The landlord has a legal duty to ensure that the property is in a good state of repair.
According to the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, landlords must:
- Keep the structure and exterior of the property in good repair
- Maintain installations for heating, gas, electricity, water, and sanitation
- Ensure the property is free from damp and mould
Common Signs of a Property in Disrepair
A property in disrepair can present in many forms. Here are some of the most common:
- Persistent damp or mould
- Broken heating systems
- Leaky roofs or windows
- Structural cracks in walls or ceilings
- Blocked drains or toilets
- Faulty wiring or dangerous electrics
- Broken doors or windows that affect security
Ignoring these issues can lead to serious health problems or even injury. That’s why it’s vital to report them promptly and document the damage.
Housing Disrepair Law: What Are Your Rights?
Under housing disrepair law, tenants have the right to live in a safe and habitable home. If your landlord fails to carry out essential repairs, you may be entitled to take legal action.
Here’s what the law covers:
- The landlord must complete repairs within a reasonable time once notified
- If they fail to act, tenants can escalate the issue to local councils or the courts
- Compensation may be awarded for damage to belongings, inconvenience, and personal injury
The Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 also strengthened these protections, allowing tenants to sue landlords directly if the property is unfit for living.
How to Report Housing Disrepair
Step-by-step, here’s how to handle a disrepair situation:
- Notify your landlord in writing, clearly stating the issue.
- Give them a reasonable timeframe to respond—typically 14 to 28 days.
- Keep evidence: take photos, keep letters, and record all communication.
- If no action is taken, contact your local council’s Environmental Health Department.
- Consider speaking to a legal expert to understand your rights.
If you’re unsure where to begin, National Claims can help connect you with a solicitor who understands housing disrepair claims inside and out.
How Much Compensation Can You Claim?
The amount of compensation depends on the extent of the disrepair and how it has affected you. Below is a breakdown based on common claim areas:
Each case is different, and compensation could be higher if you’ve suffered injuries or long-term effects.
Why Housing Disrepair Leads Are on the Rise
More tenants are coming forward to make housing disrepair claims in the UK. A combination of increased awareness, improved legislation, and shocking news reports—such as the tragic case of two-year-old Awaab Ishak, who died because of prolonged exposure to mould—has drawn national attention.
This increased visibility has also contributed to a spike in housing disrepair leads, as more people seek legal support to enforce their rights.
Home Disrepair Can Affect Your Health
Living in a home disrepair situation doesn’t just impact comfort—it can directly affect your health. Damp and mould are linked to asthma, respiratory infections, and skin irritation. Poor heating can lead to cold-related illnesses, especially among the elderly and vulnerable.
If you or a loved one has suffered health issues because of poor housing conditions, you may be eligible for compensation—not just for inconvenience, but for the pain and suffering caused.
How National Claims Can Help
At National Claims, we understand how stressful it can be to live in a damaged or unsafe property. That’s why we’re here to help.
We’ll connect you with expert solicitors who specialise in housing disrepair law. They’ll guide you through every step of the claims process, from gathering evidence to negotiating compensation.
Even if you’re not sure you have a case, we’re happy to offer a no-obligation assessment. Getting started is free, and you could be entitled to more than you think.
Featured Snippet: What is Housing Disrepair?
Housing disrepair is any damage or defect in a rented property that makes it unsafe, uncomfortable, or uninhabitable. Common examples include damp, mould, structural damage, and faulty heating or electrics. Under UK law, landlords must keep the property in good condition. If they fail, tenants may be entitled to repairs or compensation.
Final Thoughts
No one should have to tolerate unsafe or unhealthy living conditions. If your house is in disrepair, the law gives you the power to act. Whether it’s through direct legal action, council involvement, or a formal claim, you don’t have to suffer in silence.
And remember: National Claims is here to support you. We’ll put you in touch with legal professionals who understand the housing disrepair landscape and are ready to fight for your rights.
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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