Council housing in the UK is meant to provide safe, affordable homes for millions. Yet, a growing crisis of disrepair is leaving many tenants in unsafe, unhealthy, and uninhabitable conditions. From mould-infested walls to structural hazards, the situation is dire—and worsening.
In this article, we will look at 10 surprising facts about council housing disrepair. We will discuss your rights as a tenant. We will also discuss how much compensation you can claim. Additionally, we will explain how National Claims can help you find experienced solicitors for your case.
1. Disrepair Claims Are Soaring
Legal action against councils for housing disrepair has surged across the UK. Greenwich Council, for instance, saw a 350% increase in disrepair claims between 2018 and 2023 . Ealing Council reported a staggering 10,000% rise in the same period . This trend reflects a systemic failure to maintain safe living conditions.
2. Mould and Damp Are Endangering Lives
Mould and damp are not just nuisances—they’re deadly. The tragic death of two-year-old Awaab Ishak in 2020 was because of mould exposure. This led to “Awaab’s Law.” The law requires landlords to fix damp and mould problems within strict time limits.
3. Children Are Falling
In Leeds, a mother reported that mould and damp in their council home hospitalised her four-year-old daughter. Despite years of complaints, someone only recently addressed the repairs. Such cases highlight the severe health risks posed by neglected housing conditions.
4. Structural Failures Are Forcing Evacuations
In Glasgow, about 50,000 tenement flats built before 1919 are unsafe. They need urgent repairs that will cost around £10 billion nationwide. Safety concerns have forced residents to evacuate their homes.
5. Councils Are Paying Millions in Compensation
Lambeth Council has paid over £16 million in compensation to tenants for substandard living conditions since 2017 . This figure underscores the financial impact of neglecting housing maintenance.
6. Tenants Are Often Left in the Dark
Many tenants are unaware of their rights regarding housing disrepair. Critics have emphasised that some councils do not communicate well. Their responses to complaints are often inadequate. This makes residents feel helpless and unheard.
7. Legal Action Can Be Risky Without Proper Guidance
While pursuing a claim for disrepair is a legal right, doing so without proper legal guidance can be risky. In York, the court ordered a tenant to pay nearly £8,000 in legal costs after the tenant’s unsuccessful disrepair claim. Seeking expert advice before proceeding is crucial.
8. Mental Health Is Being Affected
Living in disrepair doesn’t just impact physical health—it takes a toll on mental well-being. Tenants have reported anxiety, stress, and depression because of prolonged exposure to poor living conditions.
9. New Laws Aim to Hold Landlords Accountable
The Social Housing (Regulation) Act 2023 allows regulators to impose unlimited fines on landlords. This is for those who do not keep safe living conditions. This legislation aims to enforce higher standards and accountability in social housing.
10. Support Is Available for Affected Tenants
If you’re living in a council house with disrepair issues, support is available. Organisations like National Claims can help you find experienced lawyers. They specialise in housing disrepair claims. This way, you can get the compensation and repairs you deserve.
How Much Compensation Can You Claim?
Compensation for housing disrepair varies based on the severity and duration of the issues. Generally, tenants can claim:
- 25% to 50% of rent for severe disrepair affecting health and safety.
- Additional amounts for personal belongings damaged because of disrepair.
- Compensation for personal injury or health issues caused by the disrepair.
National Claims Can Help
Navigating a housing disrepair claim can be complex, but you don’t have to do it alone. National Claims will help you put in touch with experienced solicitors who will assist you with your claim. They operate on a “no win, no fee” basis, ensuring you receive expert legal support without upfront costs.
People Also Ask
Q1. What qualifies as housing disrepair claims council?
Housing disrepair includes problems like dampness, mould, leaks, broken heating, structural issues, and pests. These are issues the landlord has not fixed.
Q2. How long does a landlord have to fix disrepair?
Landlords should address urgent repairs promptly. “Awaab’s Law” sets specific timeframes for addressing hazards like damp and mould.
Q3. Can I claim compensation for housing disrepair?
Yes, if your landlord has not made important repairs, it can lead to health issues or damage to your belongings. In this case, you may qualify for compensation.
Q4. Do I need a solicitor to make a disrepair claim?
You do not need a solicitor, but having one can help you handle your claim well. This increases the chances of success.
If you’re experiencing housing disrepair, don’t suffer in silence. Reach out to National Claims today, and take the first step towards securing the safe, healthy home you deserve.
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.
We’re proud of our excellent customer reviews
We thrive on delivering exceptional service and ensuring our clients’ satisfaction. Don’t just take our word for it. Check out some of our independent reviews to see what our clients have to say.
Excellent
This firm is excellent, they sorted out my car pay out and injury claim very fast, they always communicate with you all the time.
My accident case was dealt with confidence and with great result of the outcome, especially James kept me informed all the time.
I was very impressed at the way my inquiry was treated. I was listened to attentively and everything I needed to know was explained to me.
