When you rent a home, you expect it to be safe, warm, and comfortable. But what happens when things go wrong—like mould, leaks, or broken heating systems—and your landlord doesn’t fix them? That’s where housing disrepair claims come in.
This guide will walk you through the process in simple terms, show you how much compensation you could receive, and explain how National Claims can help you every step of the way.
What Is a Housing Disrepair Claim?
A housing disrepair claim is a legal way for tenants to hold landlords accountable for failing to maintain the property. If you live in social housing and your home has problems like damp, mould, structural damage, or faulty heating, you may be entitled to claim compensation.
Common Types of Disrepair You Can Claim For
- Damp and mould
- Leaky roofs or gutters
- Broken boilers or heating systems
- Unsafe electrical wiring
- Pest infestations
- Broken doors or windows
- Structural cracks
All of these can affect your physical health or cause psychological stress. You don’t have to suffer in silence—legal help is available.
Your Landlord’s Legal Obligations
By law, your landlord must:
- Keep the structure and exterior of the property in good repair
- Ensure heating, water, gas, and electricity systems are safe and working
- Address reported repairs within a reasonable time
According to Section 11 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, these duties apply to all landlords. If they ignore your complaints, you have every right to make a claim.
The Housing Disrepair Claims Process (Step-by-Step)
1. Identify and Report the Problem
Write to your landlord and describe the disrepair. Include dates, photos, and details. This starts a paper trail and gives your landlord a chance to fix the issue.
2. Gather Evidence
Keep:
- Photos and videos of the damage
- Medical records (if health is affected)
- Emails or letters to/from your landlord
- Independent inspection reports
3. Wait for the Landlord to Respond
They should inspect and fix the issue within a reasonable time (usually 14–28 days). If they don’t respond or delay action, you can escalate the matter.
4. Send a Letter Before Action
With help from a solicitor or a claims management company like National Claims, you can send a formal letter warning the landlord of impending legal action if they don’t resolve the issue.
5. Take Legal Action
If your landlord still refuses to act, your solicitor may help file a claim in court. In most cases, however, disputes are resolved before reaching court.
How Much Compensation Can You Claim?
The amount you can claim depends on:
- The severity of the disrepair
- How long it’s been ongoing
- The impact on your health and day-to-day life
You can typically claim:
- 8–25% of your annual rent for inconvenience or partial uninhabitability
- Medical expenses and damage to belongings
- Emotional and psychological stress damages
Why Choose National Claims?
At National Claims, we make the process easier and stress-free. We:
- Offer a free initial consultation
- Work on a no win, no fee basis
- Connect you with experienced housing disrepair solicitors
- Handle the Letter Before Action and negotiation
- Offer guidance through mediation or court, if needed
Even better, you are legally protected from eviction for making a legitimate housing disrepair claim.
People Also Ask
Q: Can I make a housing disrepair claim if I rent from the council or a housing association?
A: Yes, claims can be made if you live in council housing or any type of social housing and the landlord fails to repair the property.
Q: How long do I have to make a housing disrepair claim?
A: You usually have six years from the date the disrepair started or was reported.
Q: Will I have to go to court?
A: In most cases, no. Most claims are settled out of court through negotiation or mediation.
Q: Can I still claim if I’ve already complained to my landlord but nothing has changed?
A: Absolutely. If your landlord has ignored your complaints, you have a right to legal action.
Start Your Housing Disrepair Claim Today
If you’re living in a rented social housing property with serious maintenance issues, don’t wait. The longer you delay, the more difficult the process can become.
🔹 National Claims is here to help you every step of the way.
🔹 We’ll connect you with trusted, experienced solicitors.
🔹 You won’t pay a penny upfront thanks to our no win, no fee service.
📞 Ready to Claim?
Contact National Claims today to speak with one of our friendly claims specialists. We’ll help you build a strong case and fight for the compensation and repairs you deserve.
Conclusion
The housing disrepair claims process may seem intricate, but with the right guidance, it can be a manageable and effective way to address disrepair issues in your rented property. National Claims is here to provide the expertise and support you need to navigate this process successfully.
We are committed to upholding your rights as a tenant and ensuring that your living conditions are safe and comfortable. If you’re facing housing disrepair problems, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
We’re ready to assist you every step of the way, from the initial consultation to securing a court judgement that brings relief and resolution to your situation. Your well-being and comfort are our top priorities, and we’re dedicated to helping you achieve the best possible outcome in your housing disrepair claim.
Start your claim today by contacting us and being put in touch with one of our claims specialists.
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