Common Types of Housing Disrepair You Can Claim For?

Living in a rented home that’s falling into disrepair can be frustrating, unhealthy, and even dangerous. If your landlord has ignored requests for repairs, you may have the right to claim compensation for housing disrepair.

In this guide, we break down the common types of housing disrepair tenants face in the UK — and explain when and how you can make a claim.

For free help or to start your claim today, call 02030 264595.

What Is Housing Disrepair?

Housing disrepair refers to problems in your rental property that your landlord has a duty to fix — but hasn’t.
These issues must be reported and should affect your health, safety, comfort, or belongings.

You can claim disrepair if:

• You’ve reported the issue to your landlord

• They’ve failed to resolve it in a reasonable time

• The issue caused harm or inconvenience

Most Common Types of Housing Disrepair

Here are the most frequent repair problems UK tenants experience, which may be eligible for a housing disrepair claim.

1. Damp and Mould

Damp and mould are among the most common housing disrepair issues. They can cause respiratory problems, allergies, and damage to your belongings.

Common causes:

• Poor ventilation

• Leaking pipes or roofing

• Rising damp from walls or floors

You can claim if:

• Your landlord was aware of the issue

• You or your family experienced health problems

• Your belongings were damaged

2. Leaking Roofs and Ceilings

A leaking roof is a serious disrepair issue. It can cause:

• Structural damage

• Damp and mould growth

• Damage to floors, ceilings, and furniture

Landlords are responsible for maintaining the structure and exterior of the property, including the roof.

3. Faulty Heating Systems

A broken boiler, radiator, or central heating system during winter can be classed as disrepair, especially if it causes illness or extreme discomfort.

You may claim for:

• Physical discomfort or health effects

• Cost of alternative heating

• Time off work or inconvenience

Call 02030 264595 to find out if your heating issue qualifies for compensation.

4. Plumbing and Water Leaks

Plumbing issues that go unresolved can lead to:

• Flooding

• Water damage to personal property

• Mould, mildew, and rising damp

Your landlord must ensure all pipes, drains, and water supplies are working.

5. Electrical Hazards

Unsafe electricity poses a serious risk of shocks, fires, or injuries. These include:

• Exposed wires

• Flickering lights

• Non-functioning sockets

• Tripped circuits or overheating

Electrical issues should be fixed immediately — if not, you may be eligible to claim.

6. Structural Problems

Serious disrepair includes the deterioration of:

• Walls or ceilings (cracks, holes)

• Flooring that becomes uneven or unsafe

• Loose brickwork or broken stairs

These issues can result in accidents or injury and may qualify you for compensation and urgent repairs.

7. Broken Windows and Doors

If your landlord fails to fix damaged or broken windows and doors, it may compromise your:

• Security

• Insulation (leading to cold conditions)

• Safety during storms or emergencies

This is especially serious if you have children, elderly people, or vulnerable individuals in your home.

8. Infestation and Hygiene Issues

Infestations like rats, mice, or cockroaches may indicate poor building maintenance and sanitation.

You may have a claim if:

• You reported the issue, and nothing was done

• It led to illness, stress, or hygiene issues

What Can You Claim For?

If your housing disrepair claim is successful, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Physical illness or injury

• Stress or inconvenience

• Damage to personal belongings

• Financial loss (e.g., buying heaters, dehumidifiers, etc.)

• Increased utility bills due to disrepair

What to Do If You’re Facing Housing Disrepair

If your rented home has any of the problems listed above, here’s what you should do:

1. Report the issue to your landlord in writing (email, letter, or text)

2. Keep records of photos, videos, and all communications

3. Call Instant Assist at 02030 264595 for a free consultation

4. We’ll review your case and start your claim on a No Win No Fee basis

   Please Note: The solicitor we recommend will charge you a fee of 36% (inclusive of VAT) off your compensation. The solicitor may charge a termination fee if you cancel your agreement with them after the cancellation period, please read their Terms and conditions for more information.

Why Choose Instant Assist?

With Instant Assist, you’ll get:

• Free case evaluation

• Full support for collecting evidence

• Expert partners

You won’t pay a penny unless your claim is successful.

Speak to a claims specialist now on 02030 264595.

Final Words

Now that you understand the common types of housing disrepair, you can take action to protect your health, comfort, and rights.

Don’t let your landlord ignore serious issues in your home.

Call 02030 264595 today or visit our Housing Disrepair Claims page to start your No Win No Fee claim with Instant Assist.

Please Note: The solicitor we recommend will charge you a fee of 36% (inclusive of VAT) off your compensation. The solicitor may charge a termination fee if you cancel your agreement with them after the cancellation period, please read their Terms and conditions for more information.