How to Start a Housing Disrepair Claim: A Step-by-Step Guide for Tenants

  

Living in poor housing conditions is not just uncomfortable — it’s unacceptable. If you're dealing with damp and mould, leaking pipes, broken heating systems, or pest infestations, your landlord has a legal duty to fix these issues. If they fail to do so in a reasonable timeframe, you have the right to file a housing disrepair claim.

Here’s a clear and practical guide to help you take the right steps — and get the repairs and compensation you deserve.



📍 Step 1: Identify and Document the Problems

Start by walking through your home and taking note of any issues. Look out for:

  • Visible mould or damp patches

  • Leaky roofs, ceilings, or pipes

  • Broken windows or insecure doors

  • Boiler problems or cold radiators

  • Faulty electrics or broken lighting

  • Infestations of mice, rats, cockroaches, or bedbugs

  • Cracks in walls or ceilings indicating possible structural damage

Document everything. Take dated photos, videos, and keep a log of the issues. If you or your family have been affected physically — such as respiratory issues caused by mould — include that information as well.

✉️ Step 2: Report the Issue to Your Landlord

Before filing a claim, you must give your landlord the chance to carry out repairs.

  • Send a written complaint (email or letter) clearly listing the problems

  • Ask for a timeline of when repairs will be made

  • Keep a copy of your complaint and any replies

Make sure your complaint is polite but firm. Give your landlord a reasonable timeframe, typically 14 to 28 days, depending on the severity of the issue.

⏳ Step 3: Give Your Landlord a Fair Chance to Act

Some landlords respond quickly. Others delay or ignore complaints entirely. If nothing happens within a reasonable period — especially if you're living with health-threatening conditions like black mould, unsafe electrics, or no hot water — it's time to escalate.

If the landlord has refused to carry out repairs or ignored your requests, you may now be eligible to make a housing disrepair compensation claim.

🧾 Step 4: Gather Supporting Evidence

To file a successful claim, you’ll need to show:

  • Evidence of the disrepair (photos, videos, emails)

  • Proof you reported it to your landlord

  • Medical reports, if the disrepair has affected your health

  • Receipts for personal belongings damaged by leaks, mould, or pests

  • Records of how long the issues have lasted and how they’ve affected your life

This documentation will strengthen your claim and help demonstrate your landlord’s neglect.

⚖️ Step 5: Contact a Housing Disrepair Specialist

You don’t need to face this alone. Many solicitors and housing claims specialists offer no win, no fee services — meaning you don’t pay anything unless your claim is successful.

A housing disrepair expert can help you:

  • File a formal claim against your landlord

  • Get the necessary repairs legally enforced

  • Seek compensation for damage to belongings, inconvenience, and health impacts

  • Ensure your rights as a tenant are fully protected

💷 Step 6: What You Can Claim For

A successful housing disrepair claim can lead to:

  • Court-ordered repairs (even if your landlord continues to ignore you)

  • Compensation for damaged furniture, clothes, electronics, and other belongings

  • Compensation for emotional distress or health problems due to poor living conditions

  • Reimbursement for out-of-pocket expenses such as alternative accommodation or medical treatment

The exact amount varies depending on the severity and duration of the disrepair, but some tenants have received thousands of pounds in settlements.

🚫 Don’t Wait — Especially If Your Health Is at Risk

Some of the most common housing disrepair issues — like damp and mould, cold homes, and infestations — can seriously affect your health. Children, the elderly, and people with asthma or weak immune systems are particularly vulnerable.

If you or your loved ones are suffering, acting now can not only improve your quality of life but also prevent long-term harm.

✅ Final Words: You Have Legal Rights

Living with housing disrepair is not something you have to tolerate. Whether you’re a council tenant or rent from a housing association, you are entitled to live in a home that is safe, secure, and maintained to a legal standard.

Your landlord has responsibilities. If they don’t meet them, you have the right to fight back — and win.

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