Living with housing disrepair can be stressful enough, but when your landlord ignores repair requests, the situation becomes even more frustrating.
If your landlord refuses to fix disrepair issues, you have rights that can protect you and may even entitle you to compensation.
This guide explains what you should do when your landlord refuses repairs, your options for taking action, and how Instant Assist can help you 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.
Step 1: Put Your Complaint in Writing
If you have only mentioned the problem verbally, it’s important to follow up with written communication.
Email, text messages, or formal letters are all acceptable. Your written notice should:
-
Clearly describe the disrepair
-
Include the date you first noticed the issue
-
Request that the landlord fix the problem within a reasonable time (usually 21–28 days)
Keep copies of all communications as evidence for your future housing disrepair claim.
Step 2: Gather Evidence of the Disrepair
If your landlord continues to ignore your request, you must document the condition of the property.
Good evidence includes:
-
Photographs or videos of the disrepair
-
Records of any health problems caused by the issue
-
Medical reports (for illnesses like asthma, if damp or mould is present)
-
Witness statements (if others are affected)
Evidence is critical if you decide to claim housing disrepair compensation.
Step 3: Report the Issue to the Council or Authorities
When your landlord refuses to carry out repairs, you can escalate the issue by contacting:
-
The Environmental Health Department of your local council
-
Housing Ombudsman (for housing associations or councils)
Local authorities can inspect the property and issue enforcement notices requiring the landlord to fix serious hazards.
Step 4: Start a Housing Disrepair Claim
If your landlord still refuses to act, you can take action by starting a housing disrepair claim.
A successful claim can force repairs to be carried out and provide you with compensation for:
-
Pain and suffering
-
Damage to personal belongings
-
Stress and inconvenience
-
Higher utility bills
For free advice about your situation, call 02030 264595 today.
Also Read: Common Types of Housing Disrepair?
What Can You Claim Compensation For?
When making a housing disrepair claim, you may be eligible to receive compensation for:
-
Health issues caused by damp, mould, or unsafe living conditions
-
Replacement of belongings damaged by leaks or infestations
-
Financial losses due to the disrepair (for example, using extra heating due to broken systems)
-
Emotional distress and disruption to your daily life
If you can show that your landlord’s failure to act worsened the problem, your compensation amount may be higher.
How Instant Assist Can Help
At Instant Assist, we specialise in helping tenants when landlords refuse to fix disrepair issues.
We provide:
-
Free consultation and case review
-
Help gathering and presenting evidence
-
Fast claim submission
-
Full support until repairs are carried out and compensation is awarded
Please speak to our housing disrepair team today by calling 02030 264595.
Final Words
If your landlord is ignoring your repair requests, remember you have rights, and you don’t have to accept poor living conditions.
By acting promptly, gathering strong evidence, and seeking professional help, you can force repairs to happen and claim the compensation you deserve.
Contact Instant Assist at 02030 264595 today to find out how we can help you start your No Win No Fee housing disrepair claim and secure a safer, healthier home.
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.
