The Tenant's Guide to Handling Housing Disrepair in the UK

  If you’re a tenant in the UK and your rented home is falling apart, you’re not alone. Thousands of people across the country are stuck in properties with housing disrepair issues — from broken boilers and leaking roofs, to black mould and pest infestations. It’s a frustrating and often overwhelming situation, especially when landlords ignore your calls for help.

But here’s the good news: you have legal rights. And in most cases, you don’t need to fight this battle alone.

What is Housing Disrepair?

Housing disrepair refers to any damage or poor condition in a rental property that the landlord is legally responsible for fixing. That includes things like:

• Damp and mould
  
  

• Water leaks
  
  

• Faulty electrical wiring
  
  

• Heating system breakdowns
  
  

• Structural problems
  
  

• Broken windows and doors
  
  

• Infestations of rats, mice, or insects
  
  

If these problems go unresolved and affect your health, comfort, or belongings — your landlord could be liable.

Common Signs of Disrepair That Tenants Shouldn’t Ignore

You might think that a little bit of damp or a dripping tap isn’t a big deal. But these “minor” issues often signal bigger underlying problems. Look out for:

• Cold rooms despite the heating being on (possible boiler issues)
  
  

• Walls with bubbling paint or mould patches (indicates damp)
  
  

• Persistent bad smells or scratching sounds (possible vermin or pest infestation)
  
  

• Loose floorboards or sagging ceilings (serious structural problems)
  
  

Too many tenants learn the hard way that waiting too long can lead to even greater damage — and higher costs.

Who’s Responsible for What?

In a typical rental agreement, landlords are legally responsible for most major repairs. This includes:

• Keeping the structure and exterior of the house in good repair
  
  

• Ensuring the supply of water, gas, and electricity
  
  

• Fixing broken heating systems
  
  

• Making sure toilets, sinks, and showers are working
  
  

Tenants, on the other hand, must look after the home in a “tenant-like manner,” which means not causing damage and keeping it reasonably clean.

But if something breaks through no fault of your own — like a leaking ceiling, a cracked window, or a faulty radiator — that’s on the landlord to fix.

Step-by-Step: What To Do If You’re Living in Disrepair

1. Document Everything
   Take clear photos and videos of the problem. Keep receipts if you’ve had to replace damaged belongings.
   
   

2. Report the Issue in Writing
   Send an email or letter to your landlord or letting agent. Keep a copy for your records.
   
   

3. Allow a Reasonable Timeframe
   Usually, landlords should respond within 14 to 28 days, depending on how urgent the issue is.
   
   

4. Follow Up If Ignored
   If nothing is done, escalate the issue. You can contact your local council’s environmental health department.
   
   

5. Get Professional Help
   Many tenants work with housing disrepair experts who handle everything — from evidence collection to legal claims — often on a no win, no fee basis.
   
   

Can You Claim Compensation for Housing Disrepair?

Yes. If you’ve suffered because of unresolved repairs, you could be entitled to claim compensation. This could include:

• Damage to health (e.g. respiratory problems from mould)
  
  

• Stress and inconvenience
  
  

• Damaged belongings (e.g. furniture, clothes, electronics)
  
  

• Higher bills (e.g. due to inefficient heating)
  
  

• Cost of temporary accommodation
  
  

The amount depends on the severity of the issue and how long you were affected.

Why Tenants Often Stay Silent — and Why You Shouldn’t

Many renters are afraid to complain about housing disrepair because they fear eviction or conflict. But under the law, retaliatory eviction is illegal. Your landlord cannot kick you out for simply reporting repairs — especially if you’ve done so properly and respectfully.

Even if you’re in social housing or on a short-term tenancy, you still have the right to a safe and livable home.

Real Stories, Real Problems

• Sarah in Birmingham lived for months with damp and mould in her child’s bedroom. Her landlord ignored her, so she reached out to a housing disrepair team. They helped her claim £4,200 in compensation.
  
  

• Khalid in Manchester had a broken boiler that left his home freezing for weeks. The legal team forced the landlord to fix it and got him a refund on his energy bills.
  
  

You don’t have to fight this alone.

How Housing Disrepair Experts Help

Think of them as your repair problem-solvers. Housing disrepair experts:

• Visit your home for inspection and evidence collection
  
  

• Guide you through legal requirements and deadlines
  
  

• Communicate directly with landlords or housing associations
  
  

• Maximise your compensation
  
  

• Handle all paperwork and claim processes
  
  

And most do it on a no win, no fee basis — meaning there’s nothing to pay upfront.

When Should You Act?

Immediately.

If your property shows clear signs of disrepair, waiting longer only puts your health and claim at risk. The earlier you act, the easier it is to document, report, and legally address the issues.

Even if you’re unsure whether your problem qualifies, it’s worth getting an expert opinion.

The Bottom Line: You Deserve Better Living Conditions

Too many tenants suffer in silence, thinking nothing can be done. But the truth is: there are clear laws, support systems, and expert teams ready to help.

Whether it’s damp, leaks, broken heating, or infestations, your right to a healthy home is protected. Don’t let poor maintenance define your quality of life.

Stand up for your rights. Document the problem. Ask for help.

Because everyone deserves to live in a home that’s safe, warm, and dignified.