Housing Disrepair Claims: Everything You Need to Know

Housing Disrepair Claims

When you rent a home, you expect it to be safe, comfortable, and properly maintained. Unfortunately, thousands of tenants across England and Wales live in properties that fall below basic legal standards.

Damp, leaks, broken heating, or structural issues are not only inconvenient – they can seriously affect your health and wellbeing.

If your landlord ignores essential repairs, you may be able to make a housing disrepair claim. This guide explains what housing disrepair means, your legal rights, common issues, the claims process, and how housing disrepair solicitors can help you secure compensation.

What Is Housing Disrepair?

Housing disrepair occurs when a rented property is not maintained in a safe and habitable condition, and the landlord has failed to fix reported problems within a reasonable time.

Under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 (Sections 9–11), landlords must:

  • Maintain the structure and exterior (walls, roof, windows, doors).

  • Ensure safe and working installations for heating, water, gas, and electricity.

  • Keep sanitation facilities such as toilets, sinks, and drainage in good repair.

If your landlord fails to carry out repairs after being notified, you may have grounds to claim housing disrepair

Common Issues That Lead to Housing Disrepair Claims

Many tenants live with poor housing conditions for months, sometimes years. The most common problems include:

If your landlord ignores these issues, you can take legal action.

How to Make a Housing Disrepair Claim

To strengthen your claim, follow these steps:

  1. Report the problem in writing (emails, letters, or texts).

  2. Collect evidence (photos, videos, medical records if affected).

  3. Allow a reasonable time for repairs.

  4. Seek legal advice from housing disrepair solicitors.

  5. Letter of claim – your solicitor formally contacts the landlord.

  6. Negotiation or court – many cases settle early, but court action is possible.

This process follows the Housing Disrepair Pre-Action Protocol, which ensures fairness and encourages early settlement.

Why Use Housing Disrepair Solicitors?

While tenants can pursue claims themselves, working with specialist solicitors offers major advantages:

  • Expert knowledge of landlord obligations and court procedures.

  • Accurate calculation of compensation.

  • Strict compliance with deadlines (six-year limitation period).

  • No win, no fee” options reduce financial risk.

Having an experienced solicitor ensures your rights are fully protected.

Housing Disrepair in Liverpool and Manchester

Housing disrepair is a nationwide issue, but especially common in:

  • Liverpool – Tenants in council and housing association homes often report damp, leaks, and mould. Local providers have faced criticism for failing to act quickly.

  • Manchester – From heating breakdowns in winter to structural issues in older terraced properties, many renters face unsafe conditions.

Whether you live in Liverpool, Manchester, or elsewhere, specialist legal support is available.

FAQs on Housing Disrepair Claims

Q: How much compensation can I get?
A: It depends on severity, duration, and impact. Usually, it’s a percentage of rent during the affected period.

Q: How long does a claim take?
A: Typically 6–12 months, depending on whether the landlord cooperates.

Q: What is the average payout?
A: Many tenants receive several thousand pounds plus repair orders.

Why Acting Quickly Matters

Some tenants delay claims due to fear of eviction. However, the law protects you from revenge eviction when making genuine repair complaints.

  • You have six years to bring a claim.

  • Acting early means faster repairs and compensation.

Take Action – Start Your Housing Disrepair Claim Today

Living in poor conditions is not acceptable. Whether you are in Liverpool, Manchester, or anywhere in England and Wales, you have the right to a safe home.

Our housing disrepair solicitors can help you:

  • Enforce your landlord’s legal obligations.

  • Claim fair compensation for inconvenience, health issues, or damaged belongings.

  • Pursue your case on a no win, no fee basis.

Don’t wait. Contact us today for free initial advice and take the first step toward repairing your home and protecting your family.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *