Housing Disrepair in the UK: Know Your Rights as a Tenant

Michel July 1, 2025

Across the UK, thousands of tenants live in homes that fall below basic legal standards. These are not just minor inconveniences—issues like mould, leaks, or broken heating systems can be dangerous, affect your health, and seriously disrupt your quality of life. Fortunately, UK laws protect tenants from being forced to endure such conditions without support.

If your landlord isn’t taking action to fix reported issues, you have a right to legal recourse. This is where the Housing Disrepair Team UK can step in to support you. With years of experience handling disrepair claims, they guide tenants through every step of the process—helping them get repairs done and securing compensation for their suffering.

What Counts as Housing Disrepair?

Housing disrepair includes any condition in a rented property that has fallen into a state of poor maintenance and negatively impacts your ability to live safely and comfortably. Some of the most common disrepair issues include:

  • Damp and mould, especially when it causes breathing difficulties

  • Leaking roofs or ceilings, leading to water damage

  • Faulty boilers or heating systems, leaving homes cold in winter

  • Structural issues, such as cracked walls or unsafe floors

  • Broken windows and doors, which affect safety and insulation

  • Electrical problems, including exposed wiring or flickering lights

  • Pest infestations, such as mice, cockroaches, or bedbugs

If these problems persist after being reported, and the landlord fails to act, this constitutes neglect and may be grounds for a legal claim.

The Law Is on Your Side

The Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 and the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 outline landlords’ legal responsibilities. According to these laws, all landlords—whether public or private—must:

  • Keep the property structurally sound and free of hazards

  • Maintain water, gas, electricity, and sanitation systems

  • Repair heating and hot water installations

  • Address pest infestations and ensure a healthy living environment

  • Take action promptly when notified of issues

Failure to meet these obligations can result in legal action, which may include court-ordered repairs and financial compensation for the tenant.

When You Can Make a Claim

You can pursue a housing disrepair claim when:

  • The property is in poor condition and the landlord has failed to act

  • You have reported the issues and allowed a reasonable time for repair

  • The disrepair has impacted your physical or mental health

  • Personal items have been damaged (e.g., mould on clothing or furniture)

  • Your enjoyment of the property has been disrupted

Tenants have a legal window—typically within six years from the onset of the problem—to make a claim, although health-related claims should be made within three years.

Compensation You May Be Entitled To

A successful housing disrepair claim can result in several forms of compensation, including:

  • General damages for pain, discomfort, and inconvenience

  • Special damages for costs like damaged property or increased energy bills

  • Medical costs resulting from health issues caused by disrepair

  • Loss of amenity, if parts of your home became unusable

Compensation is often calculated based on the severity of the issue, the duration of disrepair, and the effect on your daily life.

Health Risks of Living in Disrepair

Living in unsafe or neglected housing conditions doesn’t just affect your comfort—it can be seriously harmful to your health. Common health risks include:

  • Respiratory conditions like asthma and bronchitis from mould

  • Skin issues or infections due to damp and cold

  • Stress and anxiety caused by unresolved problems and landlord inaction

  • Injuries from faulty stairs, windows, or doors

If you or your family members have been unwell due to housing issues, these damages can strengthen your case for compensation.

How the Process Works

Working with specialists like the Housing Disrepair Team UK simplifies the process of making a claim:

  1. Free Consultation – Discuss your case and get legal advice.

  2. Evidence Gathering – Collect proof, including photos, medical reports, and repair requests.

  3. Independent Survey – A qualified expert inspects the property.

  4. Letter of Claim – A formal legal notice is sent to the landlord.

  5. Settlement or Court Action – Most cases are resolved without going to court, but legal proceedings are available if needed.

Importantly, these claims are often handled on a no-win, no-fee basis, so there’s no financial risk involved.

What Makes Housing Disrepair Team UK Stand Out?

With a dedicated team of housing claim experts, Housing Disrepair Team UK provides:

  • National coverage, helping tenants from all corners of the UK

  • Free initial advice to determine if you’re eligible

  • Experienced legal professionals and housing surveyors

  • Transparent communication and step-by-step support

  • A commitment to tenant rights and holding landlords accountable

Whether your landlord is a council, housing association, or private owner, the team ensures you’re not left to deal with the problem alone.

Tips for Tenants: Protect Your Rights

If you’re currently dealing with housing disrepair, take these steps to protect yourself and strengthen your potential claim:

  • Report issues in writing and keep copies of all correspondence

  • Take clear photographs or videos of the damage

  • Keep a diary of health symptoms or disruptions caused by the problem

  • Request an inspection by a professional if necessary

  • Speak to legal professionals early, even if you’re unsure about claiming

Being proactive can prevent further damage and ensure that your voice is heard.

Take Action Now

No one should have to live in unfit conditions. If your landlord has ignored your concerns or failed to make necessary repairs, you deserve justice. Get the support you need to restore your home and reclaim your peace of mind.

Reach out to Housing Disrepair Team UK today for a no-obligation consultation. They’re here to fight for your rights—and help you secure the repairs and compensation you deserve.

Leave a Comment