🛠️ Housing Disrepair FAQ: Everything UK Tenants Need to Know

Struggling with leaks, damp, or a broken boiler? Not sure if you can take action? You’re not alone. Many UK tenants face serious housing issues — and just as many are unsure about what they’re entitled to.

This FAQ will walk you through the most common questions about housing disrepair, tenant rights, and compensation claims.

❓What counts as housing disrepair?

Housing disrepair includes any issue that makes your home unsafe, uncomfortable, or unfit to live in. Common examples include:

  • Damp and mould

  • Leaking pipes, roofs, or ceilings

  • Faulty electrics or lighting

  • Broken heating systems or boilers

  • Pest infestations (rats, cockroaches, mice, bedbugs)

  • Broken windows or insecure doors

  • Structural issues, like wall cracks or ceiling collapse

  • Blocked drains or sewage problems

If the damage is affecting your health, safety, or daily life — and your landlord hasn’t repaired it — you may be entitled to compensation.

❓Who is responsible for repairs?

Your landlord is legally responsible for most repairs in rented properties, especially:

  • Structural integrity (walls, roof, floors)

  • Heating and hot water

  • Electrical systems

  • Plumbing and sanitation

  • Gas appliances

  • Safety of the property

Even if you rent from the council or a housing association, the law applies.

You, as the tenant, are generally responsible for keeping the home clean and reporting any issues promptly.

❓What should I do if my landlord ignores repair requests?

If you've reported a problem and your landlord has ignored or delayed action:

  1. Send written complaints — emails or letters work best for proof

  2. Take photos or videos of the issue

  3. Keep a record of all correspondence

  4. If ignored for too long, you can contact a housing disrepair expert or solicitor

The longer you wait, the harder it may be to prove your case — so act quickly.

❓Can I get compensation for housing disrepair?

Yes. If your landlord has failed to fix serious issues, you may be entitled to housing disrepair compensation for:

  • Damage to belongings (furniture, clothing, electronics)

  • Discomfort or inconvenience

  • Illness or injury caused by poor conditions

  • Increased utility costs (e.g., using electric heaters)

  • Time spent without heating, hot water, or a working toilet

Compensation can range from a few hundred to several thousand pounds depending on the severity and length of the disrepair.

❓How long do I have to make a claim?

Generally, you have 6 years from when the disrepair began (or 3 years if your claim involves personal injury, such as health problems caused by mould).

That said, it’s best to act as soon as possible while the evidence is fresh.

❓Do I need a solicitor to make a housing disrepair claim?

While you can technically file a claim yourself, working with a housing disrepair solicitor is highly recommended. They can:

  • Gather and present evidence

  • Negotiate directly with your landlord or their legal team

  • Ensure your claim is complete and accurate

  • Represent you in court, if needed

Many firms operate on a no win, no fee basis — meaning you only pay if your claim succeeds.

❓Will my landlord evict me for making a claim?

It’s illegal for a landlord to evict you in retaliation for making a housing disrepair claim. This is called a “retaliatory eviction” and is against the law under the Deregulation Act 2015.

If your tenancy is still within a fixed-term agreement or if you’ve followed all rules, you're protected.

❓What if I live in temporary or emergency housing?

Tenants in temporary accommodation or emergency housing still have legal rights. The property must be:

  • Safe

  • Structurally sound

  • Free from health hazards like damp, mould, or pests

If it's not, you can still report the issue and potentially make a claim. Keep all documentation, especially in high-risk situations.

❓How long will the claim take?

It depends on the complexity of the case and your landlord’s willingness to cooperate. Most claims resolve within:

  • 8–12 weeks if your landlord responds quickly

  • 3–6 months if court proceedings are needed

During the process, your solicitor may arrange an independent inspection to assess the damage.

❓Can I make a claim while still living in the property?

Yes — and in fact, many claims are filed by tenants still occupying the property. Your goal isn’t to leave, but to get repairs completed and possibly be compensated for the time you’ve lived in poor conditions.

✅ Final Word: You Have Rights. Use Them.

Whether you're living with a broken heating system, leaking roof, or cockroach infestation, you don’t have to tolerate unsafe or unhealthy conditions. UK law protects tenants. If your landlord won’t take action — you can.

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