Housing issues are a growing concern across the UK, but one London council has seen a jaw-dropping rise in disrepair claims—up by more than 350% in just five years. According to a recent article from Inside Housing, Greenwich Council is grappling with a flood of legal actions from tenants fed up with poor living conditions. This isn’t just a statistic; it’s a wake-up call for renters and landlords alike. If you’re living in a council property that’s falling apart, you’re not alone—and you might be entitled to compensation. Let’s break it down in simple terms: what’s happening, why it matters, and how you can take action.
What’s Behind the Surge?
The numbers are staggering. Back in 2018-19, Greenwich Council faced a manageable number of disrepair claims. Fast forward to 2023-24, and that figure has shot up by over 350%. Why? It’s a mix of ageing housing stock, stretched council budgets, and tenants who are increasingly aware of their rights. Leaky roofs, damp walls, broken heating—these aren’t just inconveniences; they’re health hazards. And people are saying, “Enough is enough.”
Councils have a legal duty to keep properties in good shape. The Gov.uk website outlines that under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, landlords—including councils—must ensure homes are safe and fit to live in. When they fail, tenants can take action. Greenwich isn’t the only council under pressure—Haringey recently approved £6.9 million to tackle over 1,000 similar claims (Inside Housing, May 2024)—but its spike is one of the sharpest.
Why It Matters to You
If you’re a council tenant, this trend could affect you directly. Poor housing conditions don’t just ruin your day; they can harm your health and wallet. Mould can trigger asthma or allergies, while faulty electrics pose fire risks. Then there’s the emotional toll—living in a home that’s crumbling isn’t exactly relaxing. The rise in claims shows tenants are fighting back, and winning. Greenwich’s experience proves that councils can’t ignore the problem forever.
On the flip side, it’s a sign of a bigger issue: underfunded councils struggling to maintain properties. The Local Government Association estimates a £16.3 billion repair backlog across UK roads and housing. That’s a lot of cash that isn’t there. For tenants, though, the bottom line is simple: you shouldn’t have to put up with disrepair, no matter the council’s excuses.
Your Rights as a Tenant
So, what can you do if your council home is in bad shape? First, know your rights. The Gov.uk housing repairs page explains that councils must fix issues like:
- Damp or mould caused by leaks
- Broken heating or hot water systems
- Unsafe electrics or gas fittings
- Structural problems (e.g., cracked walls)
If you’ve reported a problem and nothing’s been done, you can escalate it. Start by complaining formally to the council—keep records of every call, email, or letter. If they still don’t act, you can take legal action. That’s where the 350% rise comes in: more tenants are doing just that, and courts are awarding repairs plus compensation.
How Much Compensation Can You Claim?
Wondering what you could get? Compensation depends on how bad the disrepair is and how it’s affected you. Here’s a rough guide based on typical housing disrepair cases:
- Minor issues (e.g., a small leak ignored for months): £1,000–£3,000
- Moderate problems (e.g., ongoing damp affecting health): £3,000–£10,000
- Severe cases (e.g., no heating for winter, serious mould): £10,000 or more
You could also claim for damaged belongings (like ruined furniture) or medical costs if the disrepair made you ill. Every case is different, so pinning down an exact amount isn’t easy without details. That’s why getting expert help matters—more on that in a sec.
How to Start Your Claim
Taking on a council might sound daunting, but it’s simpler than you think. Here’s a step-by-step:
- Report the Problem: Tell your council in writing and give them reasonable time to fix it (usually 20 working days for urgent issues).
- Gather Evidence: Take photos of the disrepair, note dates you reported it, and keep any medical records if it’s harmed your health.
- Get Legal Advice: If the council drags its feet, a solicitor can send a formal claim letter demanding repairs and compensation.
- Go to Court (if needed): Most cases settle before this, but if not, a judge can order the council to pay up.
This is where National Claims comes in. They’ll put you in touch with experienced solicitors who specialise in housing disrepair. These pros know the law inside out and can fight your corner, often on a “No Win, No Fee” basis—meaning you don’t pay unless you win. It’s a low-risk way to get what you’re owed.
Real Stories, Real Wins
Take Lambeth Council as an example. In December 2024, BBC News reported they had to pay a mum £3,000 plus £350 monthly after failing to rehouse her properly. Or Surrey County Council, which shelled out £250,000 last year for service failings (BBC News, January 2024). These aren’t one-offs—councils are losing cases left, right, and centre. Greenwich’s 350% jump shows tenants are waking up to their power.
Act Now—Don’t Wait
The disrepair crisis isn’t going away. Greenwich’s story is a warning: if councils don’t fix homes, tenants will make them pay—literally. If you’re stuck in a rundown council property, don’t suffer in silence. Check your tenancy agreement, document the issues, and reach out for help. Time’s ticking—under UK law, you usually have six years from when the problem started to claim, but the sooner you act, the better.
Ready to fight back? National Claims will connect you with top-notch solicitors to handle your case. Whether it’s a dodgy boiler or a ceiling that’s seen better days, they’ll help you get repairs and compensation. Visit their site or call today—don’t let the council off the hook.
Final Thoughts
A 350% rise in disrepair claims isn’t just a number—it’s a sign of tenants standing up for decent homes. Greenwich Council’s struggle is a microcosm of a national issue, but it’s also proof you can win. With the right support, you can turn a crumbling flat into a victory. So, if your home’s falling apart, take action. You deserve better—and the law’s on your side.
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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