Are You a Social Housing Tenant Living in Disrepair?

Housing disrepair refers to rented properties needing repair to be safe and suitable for tenants. It can affect tenants’ health, safety, and comfort, and in severe cases, cause damage to their belongings.Landlords are legally required to ensure:
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• Your home is structurally sound.
• Your home is free from damp and mould.
• Drains are clear and functional.
• The heating system is operational.
• Safe access to electricity, gas, and water.
• Working sanitation facilities (toilet, basin, sink, etc.).
• Your home is free from vermin or insect infestations.

If landlords are informed of these issues and fail to repair them within a reasonable timeframe, the property is considered to be in disrepair.

Calculating compensation for housing disrepair in the UK involves a detailed assessment of the situation, emphasizing the importance of legal advice to ensure you receive the compensation you're entitled to.

The amount awarded depends on several factors, including the nature and severity of the disrepair, its duration, and its impact on tenants, as well as any additional expenses incurred, like higher utility bills or the cost of replacing damaged belongings.

Compensation usually ranges between 25% and 50% of the property's rent, though in extreme cases, where a property is uninhabitable, you could receive up to 100% compensation. The final amount is at the judge's discretion, with the potential for significant awards in severe situations.

As a tenant, if the property you rent deteriorates or isn't maintained properly by your landlord, you could be eligible to file a disrepair claim against them. Should your landlord neglect to fix defects or fail to maintain the property's condition, resulting in damage, it's vital for you to be aware of your rights and the appropriate steps to take when your landlord doesn't uphold their responsibilities.

If you're facing issues with your rental property, our team of specialists is here to assist you. We provide complimentary initial consultations, so don't hesitate to contact us for further details.

A housing disrepair claim is valid only if the disrepair falls under the landlord's responsibility. Claims are inapplicable to damage from uncontrollable events like fires or floods, or for repairs to personal belongings or items not listed in the initial inventory. Disrepair caused by you or another tenant doesn't qualify for a claim. Similarly, if repairs are delayed because the landlord needs approval from the property owner or council, or if you denied access for repairs despite their attempts, a claim cannot be made.

If you are unsure about your ability to make a claim, we can help you navigate this difficult process and helping you understand your next steps.

It is against the law for your landlord to evict you or retaliate against you for raising concerns about disrepair or initiating legal action against them. Eviction is only permissible if you violate your tenancy agreement, such as not paying rent or causing disturbances to neighbours.

The practice of issuing "revenge" eviction notices through Section 21 of the Housing Act, which allowed landlords to terminate tenancies without cause with at least two months' notice, has been discontinued. With the abolition of Section 21 in 2019, these "no-fault" evictions are no longer valid.

Moreover, any Section 21 notices issued after a tenant's written complaint or within six months following a council's issuance of an improvement notice will not be enforceable.