Living in a rented home should feel safe and comfortable, but what happens when your landlord ignores problems like damp, mould, or broken heating? If you’re a tenant facing these issues, a No Win, No Fee Housing Disrepair Claim could be your solution. This blog explains what it is, how it works, and how it can help you get repairs done and claim compensation—all without upfront costs. Let’s break it down simply.
What is a No Win, No Fee Housing Disrepair Claim?
A No Win, No Fee Housing Disrepair Claim is a legal option for tenants in the UK. It lets you take action against a landlord who fails to fix serious problems in your rented home, like leaks, faulty electrics, or pest infestations. The best part? You don’t pay anything upfront. If your claim doesn’t win, you owe nothing. If it does, the legal fees come out of your compensation. This setup makes it risk-free and accessible, even if you’re worried about money.
In short, it’s a way to hold landlords accountable and get the repairs you deserve, whether you rent from a private landlord, council, or housing association.
How Does It Work?
Wondering how to get started? The process is straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Check Your Situation
First, confirm the problem qualifies as “disrepair.” This includes issues affecting your health or safety, like mould, broken windows, or no hot water. Your landlord must have been told about it and given a fair chance to fix it—usually 21 days, according to gov.uk guidelines on repairs. - Contact a Solicitor
Next, reach out to a solicitor who offers No Win, No Fee services. National Claims can help you get in touch with experienced solicitors who specialise in housing disrepair. They’ll review your case for free and tell you if it’s worth pursuing. - Gather Evidence
Then, collect proof. Take photos of the damage, keep records of complaints to your landlord (emails, texts, or letters), and note how it’s affected you—like ruined belongings or health issues. This builds a strong case. - Letter of Claim
Your solicitor sends a formal letter to your landlord, outlining the problem and what you’re asking for (repairs, compensation, or both). The landlord gets time to respond—often 20 working days. - Negotiation or Court
If your landlord agrees, repairs happen, and you might get compensation without going further. But if they refuse, your solicitor may take the case to court. Don’t worry—most claims settle before this point. - Outcome
Finally, if you win, your landlord fixes the issues, and you get compensation. Your solicitor takes a percentage of it as their fee (agreed upfront). If you lose, you pay nothing.
This process is designed to be stress-free. With National Claims, you’re guided every step of the way by experts who know the ropes.
Why Choose No Win, No Fee?
So, why go for this option? For starters, it removes financial risk. Legal fees can be scary, but with No Win, No Fee, you’re covered. Plus, it pushes landlords to act. A news report from York Press in January 2025 warned tenants about dodgy firms, but sticking with reputable solicitors—like those National Claims connects you with—keeps you safe.
Moreover, it’s empowering. You don’t have to put up with a leaking roof or dodgy wiring. The law, including the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, says landlords must keep your home in good shape. This claim enforces that right.
How Much Compensation Can You Claim?
Now, let’s talk money. Compensation depends on your situation, but here’s what you might get:
- General Damages: This covers inconvenience, distress, or health problems caused by disrepair. For example, if mould gave you asthma, you could claim more. Amounts often range from £1,000 to £10,000, depending on severity and time spent suffering.
- Special Damages: This is for specific losses, like ruined furniture or extra heating bills from broken windows. You’ll need receipts or proof.
- Rent Reduction: Courts might award a percentage of your rent back—say, 20-50%—for the period you lived with the issue.
Every case is different. A solicitor from National Claims can estimate your payout after reviewing your evidence. The worse the disrepair and its impact, the higher the compensation could be.
Who Can Claim?
Good news: most tenants can use this option. Whether you rent privately, from a council, or a housing association, you’re eligible if:
- Your landlord ignored repair requests.
- The issue affects your living conditions or health.
- You’ve got evidence to back it up.
Even better, National Claims will help you find experienced solicitors to check your case for free. No guesswork—just clear advice.
What Problems Qualify?
Not sure if your issue counts? Here are common examples:
- Damp or mould growth.
- Leaking roofs or pipes.
- Broken heating or hot water systems.
- Faulty electrics or plumbing.
- Pest infestations (if the landlord’s neglect caused it).
If it makes your home unsafe or unpleasant, it’s worth checking. The gov.uk page on housing standards backs this up—landlords have a legal duty to act.
Benefits of Acting Now
Why wait? Acting fast stops small problems becoming big ones. A dripping tap could flood your flat, or mould could wreck your health. Plus, starting a claim with National Claims means repairs happen sooner, and you get cash to cover losses. It’s a win-win.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What does No Win, No Fee really mean?
It means you don’t pay legal fees unless you win. If you do, the solicitor’s cut comes from your compensation—typically 25-35%.
Q2. How long does a claim take?
Most settle in 6-18 months. Simple cases might wrap up faster; complex ones take longer if they go to court.
Q3. Can my landlord evict me for claiming?
No. The law protects you from “revenge evictions” if you’ve reported disrepair first. Check gov.uk tenant rights for details.
Q4. What if I lose the case?
You pay nothing. That’s the beauty of No Win, No Fee—zero risk.
Q5. How do I start?
Contact National Claims. They’ll connect you with experienced solicitors who’ll assess your case for free and guide you through.
Ready to Take Action?
Living with disrepair isn’t just annoying—it’s unfair. A No Win, No Fee Housing Disrepair Claim gives you power to fight back, fix your home, and claim what’s yours. National Claims will help you get in touch with experienced solicitors who’ll handle everything, so you don’t have to stress.
Don’t let a neglectful landlord win. Reach out today, share your story, and start your claim. A safer, happier home is just a step away.
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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