Introduction
Tenants in the UK have robust legal rights regarding housing disrepair claims. These rights are designed to ensure that rented properties are safe, healthy, and suitable for living.Â
Listed below is a list and explanation of these rights, as supported by current UK housing laws and guidance.
Right To A Habitable Home
Tenants are entitled to live in a property that is safe, secure, and free from serious hazards such as:
- Damp
- Mould
- Faulty wiring
- Broken heating
- Structural problems
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The landlord is legally responsible for maintaining the structure, exterior, and essential installations of the property. This includes water, gas, electricity, and heating systems.
Tenants do not have to tolerate unsafe or unhealthy living conditions. The law provides clear protections for those affected by housing disrepair.
Right To Request Repairs
As a tenant, you have the right to report any disrepair to your landlord. You should expect these repairs to be completed within a reasonable timeframe.Â
The duty to repair only arises once the landlord has been made aware of the issues. We recommend notifying your landlord in writing and keeping records of all communications.
Landlords should be given a reasonable time to fix the problems. Typically, three months is enough, but this can vary depending on the severity of the issues.
Right To Legal Remedies & Compensation
If your landlord fails to carry out repairs after being notified, tenants can:
- Make a formal complaint to their landlord.
- Escalate the issue to the Housing Ombudsman.
- Take legal action to force repairs and claim compensation.
Compensation can be claimed for:
- Inconvenience & loss of enjoyment of the property.
- Financial losses (higher bills, damaged belongings).
- Health problems caused or worsened by the disrepair.
- Personal injury or medical costs (if applicable).
Right To Be Free From Retaliatory Eviction
Tenants are protected from unfair eviction if they report this disrepair or exercise their legal rights. Landlords must follow due process to evict a tenant and cannot do so simply because a tenant has made a complaint.
Right To Information
Tenants must be provided with clear information about their tenancy, including the landlord’s responsibilities and procedures for reporting repairs.
Right To Privacy
Tenants are entitled to live without unnecessary intrusion. Landlords must give notice before entering the property, such as viewing disrepair, except in emergencies.
If your landlord has agreed on a date to come and view your disrepair, we recommend allowing them access to your property.
No Win, No Fee, No Worry!
All our housing disrepair claims are handled on a no win, no fee basis, so there’s no financial risk for you.
If your claim is unsuccessful, you won’t pay a penny.
If we win your case, our fees are covered by your landlord.
Think you might be eligible to claim housing disrepair? Simply fill out our form using the button below and a member of our team will contact you shortly.