If you’re a tenant living in poor or unsafe housing conditions, you might be wondering: What is classified as housing disrepair?
Not every issue in your home qualifies, but when your landlord fails to fix serious problems, you may have the right to make a housing disrepair claim.
In this guide, Instant Assist explains which issues are considered disrepair, your rights, and when you can take action.
Call 02030 264595 for a free consultation about your housing disrepair rights.
What is Housing Disrepair?
Housing disrepair refers to damage or poor conditions in a rented property that have not been fixed by the landlord, despite being reported.
Landlords are responsible for ensuring that the property remains safe, livable, and properly maintained.
Disrepair includes structural faults, broken facilities, and hazards to health, all of which you may be able to claim for.
Common Issues Classified as Housing Disrepair
These are the most common issues that may qualify for a housing disrepair claim:
Structural & External Damage
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Cracks in walls or ceilings
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Damaged roof tiles or leaking roofs
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Broken windows or doors
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Loose bricks or unsafe external steps
Damp and Mould
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Persistent black mould on ceilings or walls
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Rising damp from the floors
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Peeling paint or warped wood due to moisture
Heating and Plumbing Failures
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Faulty or broken boilers
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Lack of heating or hot water
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Leaking pipes, blocked drains
Electrical Hazards
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Exposed wiring or broken sockets
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Flickering lights or power outages
Kitchen and Bathroom Problems
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Broken toilet flush or leaking taps
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Rotting units or damp under sinks
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Mouldy grouting or tiles
Infestations
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Rodents, cockroaches, or bedbugs are due to poor conditions
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Blocked waste leading to foul smells
If these problems have been reported and your landlord hasn’t acted, it may be time to claim compensation.
What Does Not Count as Disrepair?
Some issues are considered general wear and tear or cosmetic, and typically do not qualify for a claim:
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Minor scuffs or marks on paintwork
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Loose cupboard doors (if not dangerous)
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Carpet wears over time
If you’re unsure whether your issue qualifies, call 02030 264595 for free advice from the housing disrepair experts at Instant Assist.
Landlord Responsibilities
Landlords are required by law to keep their rental properties in good repair. This includes:
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Structural safety (walls, roof, stairs)
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Working water, gas, and electricity supplies
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Sanitary systems (toilets, sinks, baths)
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Heating and hot water systems
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Hazard-free living conditions
They must act within a reasonable time once a problem is reported, typically within 21 to 28 days.
When Can You Make a Housing Disrepair Claim?
You may be eligible to make a housing disrepair claim if:
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You’ve reported the issue, and nothing has been done
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The condition has affected your health or caused damage to your belongings
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The disrepair has continued for an unreasonable amount of time
You can also claim even if:
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You’re still living in the property
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Repairs were only recently completed
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You’re behind on rent in many cases
What Can You Claim Compensation For?
A successful claim may allow you to receive compensation for:
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Illnesses caused by damp or mould
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Loss or damage to belongings
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Inconvenience and discomfort
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Financial losses (increased bills, replacement furniture, etc.)
Start your claim today by calling 02030 264595 or visiting our Housing Disrepair Claims page.
How Instant Assist Helps You
At Instant Assist, we handle everything for you:
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Free consultation and eligibility check
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Collection of evidence, including expert reports
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Fast, professional claim processing
You won’t pay anything upfront, and we only get paid if your claim is successful.
Speak to our experts today on 02030 264595 to find out if you qualify.
FAQS About Housing Disrepair
Q1: Can I claim for damp and mould?
Yes, it qualifies if it has impacted your health or property, and your landlord ignored your report.
Q2: My landlord blames me for the damage. Can I still claim?
You may still claim if you can prove it wasn’t caused by misuse and you’ve reported it correctly.
Q3: Do I need to move out to make a claim?
No, you can remain in your home during the process.
Final Words
Understanding what is classified as housing disrepair helps you protect your health, safety, and rights as a tenant.
If your landlord isn’t responding to your repair requests, you don’t have to face it alone.
Call 02030 264595 or visit our Housing Disrepair Claims page to start your No Win No Fee claim today.
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.
