Your Legal Rights as a Tenant: How to Take Action on Housing Disrepair

Across the UK, thousands of tenants are living in homes that are unsafe, unhealthy, or in a serious state of disrepair. From leaking ceilings and broken boilers to severe damp and pest infestations, housing disrepair is a growing issue—and tenants don’t always know their rights.

The Housing Disrepair Team is here to change that. With a team of expert solicitors and specialists, they help tenants in council, housing association, and privately rented homes take legal action and secure both compensation and repairs. Their no-win, no-fee service means you get support without financial risk.

What Is Housing Disrepair?

Housing disrepair refers to damage or poor conditions in a rented home that your landlord has a legal duty to fix. It becomes a serious issue when:

  • You’ve reported the problem

  • Your landlord hasn’t fixed it in a reasonable time

  • The issue impacts your health, safety, or quality of life

Common forms of housing disrepair include:

  • Damp and mould growth

  • Leaks from ceilings, pipes, or roofing

  • Broken heating or hot water systems

  • Rodents, insects, or pest infestations

  • Unsafe electrics or plumbing

  • Cracks in walls or ceilings

  • Damaged windows or doors

If you’re dealing with any of these, you have the right to take action.

The Landlord’s Legal Obligations

Under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 and the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018, landlords must:

  • Maintain the structure and exterior of the property

  • Keep water, gas, heating, and electrical systems in working order

  • Ensure the property is free from damp, mould, and infestations

  • Carry out repairs within a reasonable timeframe after you report them

These laws apply whether your landlord is a local council, housing association, or private individual.

How Housing Disrepair Affects Tenants

Unresolved disrepair can have devastating effects on tenants:

  • Health problems – mould and damp can cause respiratory issues, allergies, and infections

  • Stress and anxiety – living in poor conditions affects mental well-being

  • Financial losses – increased energy bills, medical expenses, and damaged possessions

  • Safety risks – faulty wiring or leaks can lead to injury or fire

You deserve better. And legally, your landlord must provide it.

How to Make a Housing Disrepair Claim

If your home is in disrepair and your landlord hasn’t fixed it, follow these steps:

  1. Report the Problem
    Notify your landlord in writing and keep a record. Include photos if possible.

  2. Give Them Time to Respond
    The law allows a “reasonable” period for repairs—usually a few weeks depending on the severity.

  3. Collect Evidence
    Keep photos, videos, repair request emails, medical records, and receipts.

  4. Contact the Experts
    Reach out to the Housing Disrepair Team. They’ll assess your case for free and begin the legal process if it qualifies.

What Can You Claim For?

If your disrepair claim is successful, you may receive:

  • Professional repairs completed promptly

  • Financial compensation for pain, suffering, and inconvenience

  • Reimbursement for medical costs and damaged belongings

  • Legal protection from harassment or eviction

Compensation amounts vary by case. On average, tenants receive between £1,000 and £10,000.

Who Can Make a Claim?

You are likely eligible to make a housing disrepair claim if:

  • You rent from a housing association, council, or private landlord

  • You reported the problem and nothing was done

  • You’ve lived in the home for at least six months

  • You’ve suffered due to the disrepair—physically, mentally, or financially

Even if you’re unsure whether your case qualifies, a free consultation will help clarify your rights.

Common Misconceptions About Disrepair Claims

“I’ll be evicted for complaining.”
This is illegal. Landlords cannot evict you for making a legitimate disrepair claim.

“I can’t afford legal fees.”
The Housing Disrepair Team operates on a no-win, no-fee basis. You won’t pay a penny unless your case is successful.

“My landlord promised to fix it eventually.”
Promises don’t equal action. If the issue has gone unresolved, you have a legal right to act.

Success Story: A Council Tenant in Manchester

Maria, a council tenant, lived with damp and broken heating for over a year. Her young daughter developed asthma, and repeated complaints were ignored. She contacted the Housing Disrepair Team, who secured £6,200 in compensation and ensured all repairs were completed within a month.

Why Choose the Housing Disrepair Team?

  • Free claim assessments

  • No upfront costs with a no-win, no-fee guarantee

  • Specialists in UK housing disrepair law

  • Fast and professional service

  • Nationwide support for tenants across England and Wales

They make the process simple and stress-free—from your first call to your final settlement.

Final Thoughts

No one should have to live in a cold, mouldy, or dangerous home—especially when you’re paying rent. Whether your landlord is ignoring complaints or offering empty promises, you don’t have to accept unsafe conditions.

Take back control of your living situation. Contact the Housing Disrepair Team today and get the justice, repairs, and compensation you’re entitled to. Your home should be a safe haven, not a daily struggle.

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