By jamesmichle 
Living in a rental property that’s in poor condition can be stressful and even dangerous. Whether you’re dealing with persistent damp and mould, a broken heating system, faulty windows, or pest infestations, these are more than just inconveniences—they’re serious health and safety hazards. Unfortunately, many tenants are unsure of what steps to take when landlords ignore their responsibilities.
If your landlord has failed to maintain the property or refused to make necessary repairs, you could be eligible to make a compensation claim for housing disrepair. Tenants in the UK are legally entitled to live in homes that are safe, secure, and in good repair. When landlords breach these duties, the law is on your side—and you don’t have to suffer in silence.
What Makes a Rental Property Legally Unsafe?
Not all problems in a rental home are considered legal disrepair. However, the following issues are clear violations of the landlord’s legal obligations:
- Damp and mould that causes health problems or damages personal belongings
- Water leaks, whether from the roof, pipes, or structural defects
- Broken heating systems, especially during winter months
- Unsafe windows or doors that pose a risk of injury or intrusion
- Infestations of rodents or insects due to poor maintenance or holes in the structure
- Faulty electrics or plumbing, increasing the risk of fire, flooding, or injury
If these issues are present and your landlord is aware but unwilling to act, the property may be deemed legally uninhabitable.
Your Rights as a Tenant
Under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, your landlord must keep the structure and exterior of the property in good repair, ensure installations for heating and water are functional, and address health and safety risks promptly. If they fail to do so, you can:
- Request Repairs in Writing – Always report the issue to your landlord or letting agent in writing and keep a record.
- Give Reasonable Time for Response – Typically, landlords should respond and begin repairs within 14–28 days.
- Contact Local Authorities – If nothing is done, your local council’s environmental health department can inspect and enforce repairs.
- Pursue a Legal Claim – If you’ve suffered physical harm, loss of belongings, or distress, you can take legal action.
When You Can Make a Compensation Claim
You can file a compensation claim for housing disrepair if:
- Your landlord has been notified of the problem and failed to act.
- The disrepair has caused you inconvenience, financial loss, or health problems.
- The issue has persisted over a significant period of time.
Compensation can cover more than just physical damage—it may also include:
- Health-related costs (e.g., medical bills or therapy)
- Replacement of damaged personal items
- Loss of enjoyment or use of parts of your home
- Emotional distress and discomfort
What to Do Before Filing a Claim
To build a strong case, you’ll need to gather evidence. This includes:
- Photographs and videos of the damage
- Copies of written complaints or messages to your landlord
- Medical reports, if health has been affected
- Receipts for any money spent fixing or replacing damaged items
- Inspection reports, if available
The more comprehensive your documentation, the easier it will be to support your claim.
How Housing Disrepair Team Can Help
At Housing Disrepair Team, we specialise in supporting tenants who are living in unsafe or uninhabitable conditions. Our experienced team offers a no-win, no-fee service, so there’s no financial risk to you. If your case isn’t successful, you don’t pay us a penny.
We take care of everything:
- Assessing the validity of your claim
- Helping you document the disrepair
- Communicating with your landlord
- Filing your legal claim
- Ensuring the necessary repairs are carried out
- Securing the compensation you’re entitled to
We believe no one should have to live in unsafe housing, and we work hard to make sure your home is restored and your rights are respected.
Don’t Wait Until It Gets Worse
Unsafe housing conditions don’t just get better on their own—they often worsen over time and can lead to serious consequences for your health and wellbeing. Whether you’re experiencing mould-related health issues, struggling without proper heating, or dealing with constant leaks and infestations, it’s essential to take action as soon as possible.
The sooner you start the process, the sooner you can get back to living in a safe, comfortable home.
Why Choose Housing Disrepair Team?
Choosing the right team to support you through a housing disrepair claim can make a world of difference. At Housing Disrepair Team, we combine legal expertise with a deep understanding of tenant rights. We focus exclusively on helping renters who have been let down by their landlords, and we’ve built a strong reputation for delivering results.
Our process is simple, transparent, and built around your needs. From the moment you contact us, we aim to make the journey as stress-free as possible. We’ll listen to your concerns, help you understand your rights, and give you clear advice on your next steps. You’ll never be left in the dark—we believe in honest communication and complete transparency throughout your case.
Types of Housing Disrepair Cases We Handle
We deal with a wide range of housing issues that impact the health and safety of tenants, including:
- Damp and Mould – which can lead to respiratory issues and cause serious damage to your belongings.
- Water Leaks and Flooding – often caused by faulty roofing, plumbing, or broken seals.
- Pest Infestation – such as rats, mice, or insects entering due to poor maintenance or structural issues.
- Broken Heating Systems – especially dangerous during colder months, affecting health and well-being.
- Faulty Windows and Doors – which pose both a security and health hazard.
- Unsafe Electricals or Plumbing – that create risk of fire, injury, or long-term damage.
If your home suffers from any of these issues, and your landlord has not taken action after being notified, you could be entitled to compensation and required repairs under housing disrepair laws.
We Work on Your Behalf—Every Step of the Way
We take on the burden of legal action so you can focus on living comfortably again. Our team gathers the necessary evidence, arranges independent inspections if needed, and builds a strong case on your behalf. You’ll be supported by legal professionals who are familiar with housing disrepair law and committed to getting results.
You don’t have to accept unsafe living conditions. With Housing Disrepair Team, help is just a call or message away. Whether you’re unsure of your rights or ready to begin a claim, we’re here to guide you through the entire process—and get you the outcome you deserve.
Final Thoughts
Every tenant deserves to live in a home that is warm, safe, and free of health hazards. If your rental property falls short and your landlord is ignoring your concerns, it’s time to take action. By starting a compensation claim for housing disrepair, you not only protect your rights but also encourage better standards for tenants across the UK.
Contact Housing Disrepair Team today to find out how we can help you reclaim control over your living conditions—and your peace of mind.