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Housing Disrepair Claims

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What is Housing Disrepair?

Before diving into housing disrepair claims, it’s crucial to understand what housing disrepair is. Essentially, housing disrepair occurs when a rented property needs repairs to ensure tenant safety and suitability.

 

If you are a tenant, your landlord must ensure:

 

  • The house structure is in good repair.
  • The property is free from dampness and mould.
  • Drains and gutters are clear and functioning.
  • The heating system is operational.
  • Secure access to electricity, gas, and water.
  • Sanitation facilities like toilets, basins, and sinks work properly.
  • The property is free from vermin or insect infestations.

 

If repairs are needed and your landlord doesn’t fix them within a reasonable time after notification, then it’s considered housing disrepair.

 

What Repairs Constitute Housing Disrepair?

Housing disrepair includes dampness, mould, condensation, and leaks. Additionally, drainage issues, flooding, and brickwork needing repointing also qualify.

 

Moreover, other problems are missing or loose tiles, structural cracks, and insect or vermin infestations. Furthermore, insufficient ventilation and boiler malfunctions are included.

 

Significantly, lack of running water, hot water, or heating are major disrepair issues. Importantly, both internal and external property problems are covered.

Landlord Responsibilities

Generally, landlords must address housing disrepair, whether in social housing or private rentals. Consequently, tenants should not endure substandard living conditions.

Moreover, the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation Act) mandates repairs as part of tenancy agreements. Therefore, violations allow tenants to take legal action.

Initial Steps for Tenants

Firstly, inform your landlord about the disrepair issues. If your home’s condition becomes unsafe or unsuitable, you may file a claim.

By addressing housing disrepair, tenants can ensure their homes remain safe and habitable.

In the initial step, it is crucial to inform your landlord about the issues affecting your property. If your home’s condition deteriorates to the point where it becomes unsafe or unsuitable for habitation due to neglected maintenance or repair needs, you may be eligible to file a claim.

Is my landlord responsible for disrepair in my property?

As a renter, it can be challenging to determine who handles repairs. Typically, your lease agreement should outline maintenance responsibilities. However, the division of duties is not always clear-cut. Consequently, responsibilities are not always solely the landlord’s or the tenant’s.

For a free consultation call Slough +44 1753 530111 or London +44 20 7258 2006 or contact us here and we will call you. You may also email info@dawnsolicitors.com

A housing disrepair claim is made when a landlord fails to repair issues in your rented property, such as damp, leaks, mold, faulty heating, or structural damage. Tenants can claim compensation and request that the necessary repairs be carried out.

Common issues include damp or mold, leaking roofs or pipes, broken windows or doors, faulty electrics, pest infestations, and unsafe heating or plumbing systems. If these problems affect your health or safety, you may have a valid claim.

Yes. If you rent from a local council or housing association and they’ve failed to fix reported issues within a reasonable time, you may be entitled to compensation and required repairs.

You should keep records such as photographs of the damage, copies of letters or emails to your landlord, medical reports (if applicable), and any receipts for related expenses. Our solicitors can guide you through the process and handle your claim efficiently.