What counts as disrepair in a council house?
Disrepair in a council house includes issues such as mould, damp, broken heating, leaking roofs, faulty electrics, and structural damage. If your council landlord fails to fix these problems, you may be eligible to claim compensation for housing disrepair.
Living in a council home should feel safe, warm, and secure. But when your home falls into disrepair, your quality of life can quickly decline. From persistent damp and mould to broken heating systems, housing disrepair can affect your health and wellbeing—and you shouldn’t have to tolerate it.
In this quick and simplified guide, we’ll break down what counts as disrepair in council homes, your legal rights, how to make a housing disrepair claim, and how National Claims can help you connect with experienced solicitors to support your case.
What Is Housing Disrepair in a Council Property?
Housing disrepair refers to damage or poor conditions in a property that the landlord—in this case, your local council or housing association—is legally responsible for repairing. Under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, landlords must keep the structure and exterior of the property in good repair.
Common examples of council housing disrepair include:
- Damp and mould affecting walls, ceilings, or floors
- Leaking roofs or windows letting in water or draughts
- Broken boilers or heating systems leaving you without hot water or heating
- Faulty electrics posing fire or shock hazards
- Infestations such as rats, mice, or cockroaches due to structural issues
- Cracked walls or ceilings
- Plumbing problems, like blocked toilets or leaking pipes
- Unsafe flooring or staircases that could cause injury
If any of these issues remain unresolved after you’ve reported them, you may be entitled to compensation for housing disrepair.
Your Rights as a Council Tenant
As a tenant, your rights are protected by law. The council has a legal duty to carry out repairs in a reasonable timeframe once they are made aware of the problem.
According to gov.uk, your landlord must:
- Repair structural issues like walls, roofs, windows, and doors
- Ensure your gas, water, electricity, and sanitation systems work properly
- Fix any damage caused by repair delays
If they fail to do this, not only are they breaching their responsibilities, but they’re also putting your health at risk.
How Much Compensation Can You Claim for Disrepair?
The amount of compensation you can claim depends on several factors, such as:
- The severity of the disrepair
- How long the problem went unfixed
- The impact on your health and daily life
- Whether you experienced financial loss, like higher energy bills or damaged belongings
On average, tenants may receive:
- £1,000 to £20,000 for severe disrepair or health issues
- 10% to 50% of annual rent as general compensation
- Additional amounts for pain and suffering, or if you’ve been forced to move out temporarily
Each case is different, so it’s essential to get expert legal guidance to determine the true value of your claim.
How to Make a Council House Disrepair Claim
If you’ve reported the issue to your council and they haven’t acted, follow these steps:
1. Document the Problem
Take clear photos and videos of the damage. Keep a record of all communications with your council, including letters, emails, and complaint forms.
2. Seek Medical Advice (if needed)
If the disrepair has affected your health, visit your GP and keep medical records. Respiratory problems and psychological stress are common results of living in poor housing.
3. Speak to an Experienced Solicitor
This is where National Claims can help. We’ll put you in touch with qualified solicitors who specialise in housing disrepair claims. They’ll assess your case, gather evidence, and fight for your right to live in a safe home.
4. Start Your Claim
Your solicitor may send a formal letter to the council demanding repairs and outlining your compensation claim. If they refuse or delay, the case could go to court—though many settle before that stage.
Why Housing Disrepair Shouldn’t Be Ignored
Ignoring disrepair problems can lead to serious consequences, including:
- Physical health issues such as asthma, allergies, and infections
- Mental health strain from living in uncomfortable, unsafe conditions
- Damage to personal belongings, such as clothes, furniture, and electronics
- Safety risks, including fire hazards or injuries from unsafe floors or ceilings
You don’t have to put up with it. Help is available.
National Claims: Helping You Get the Justice You Deserve
At National Claims, we believe every tenant deserves to live in a safe and well-maintained home. If your council has failed to fix serious problems in your property, we’re here to help.
We’ll connect you with experienced solicitors who will handle your housing disrepair claim from start to finish. There are no upfront fees, and many claims are handled on a no win, no fee basis.
Don’t wait—get in touch with National Claims today and take the first step towards better living conditions and rightful compensation.
People Also Ask
❓ What should I do if my council ignores my repair requests?
If the council ignores your repair request, collect evidence, make a formal complaint, and contact a solicitor. National Claims can help connect you with one.
❓ Can I stop paying rent for disrepair?
Not without legal advice. Stopping rent payments could lead to eviction. It’s better to make a formal disrepair claim with legal support.
❓ Is mould in a council house classed as disrepair?
Yes. Mould caused by leaks, damp or poor ventilation is classed as disrepair and should be fixed by the landlord.
❓ How long should the council take to carry out repairs?
The council should fix urgent repairs (like no heating or water leaks) within 24 hours to 7 days. Non-urgent repairs should be done in a reasonable timeframe, usually within 28 days.
Final Thoughts
Living with housing disrepair is stressful—but you’re not alone. The law is on your side, and with the right support, you can hold your council accountable and claim the compensation you deserve.
Whether you’re dealing with damp, mould, faulty electrics, or heating issues, act now. The longer you wait, the worse it can get.
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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