Housing Disrepair: Your Rights as a Council or Housing Association Tenant & How to Take Action

Are you living in unsafe or poor conditions? Here’s what you need to know.

If you are a council or housing association tenant, your landlord is responsible for keeping your home in a safe, liveable condition. Unfortunately, many tenants experience housing disrepair issues that their landlord fails to fix—problems like damp and mould, leaks, faulty heating, and structural damage. These issues can severely impact your health, quality of life, and even property value.

But here’s the good news: you have rights. If your landlord is ignoring repairs, you could be entitled to compensation.

What is Housing Disrepair?

Housing disrepair refers to damage or defects in your home that your landlord is legally required to fix. These include:

✅ Damp, mould, and leaks – Can cause respiratory issues, worsen asthma, and damage belongings.
✅ Heating and hot water failure – Especially dangerous in winter months.
✅ Unsafe electrics or plumbing – Faulty wiring, leaking pipes, or broken fixtures.
✅ Structural problems – Cracked walls, unsafe flooring, or unstable ceilings.
✅ Pest infestations – Mice, rats, or insects due to disrepair.

If you have reported these issues and your landlord has ignored or delayed repairs, you may have a legal case.

Your Legal Rights as a Council or Housing Association Tenant

Under UK law, your landlord must ensure your home is safe, free from hazards, and in good repair. This includes:

🔹 Fixing structural problems (e.g., walls, roofs, windows).
🔹 Ensuring safe electrics, plumbing, and heating.
🔹 Addressing damp, mould, and leaks that affect health.
🔹 Keeping communal areas in a safe condition.

What Should You Do If Your Landlord Ignores Repairs?

If your landlord isn’t fixing the problem, follow these steps:

1️⃣ Report the issue in writing – Send an email or letter and keep a copy.
2️⃣ Take photos and videos – Document the damage and any worsening conditions.
3️⃣ Keep records – Save emails, repair requests, and responses from your landlord.
4️⃣ Get expert legal help – If your landlord continues to ignore you, you may be able to claim compensation.

Can You Claim Compensation for Housing Disrepair?

Yes! If your home has been in disrepair for a significant period and your landlord has failed to act, you may be entitled to compensation for:

💰 Inconvenience – Living in poor conditions.
💰 Health problems – If damp, mould, or other hazards have affected your well-being.
💰 Damage to belongings – If personal items have been ruined by leaks, damp, or pests.
💰 Higher bills – If disrepair has led to increased heating or repair costs.

How Long Do Housing Disrepair Claims Take?

Each case is different, but with the right legal team, you can often reach a settlement in a timely manner. Acting quickly is important—the longer the issue persists, the stronger your claim could be.

Why Choose GLP Solicitors for Your Housing Disrepair Claim?

At GLP Solicitors, we specialise in helping council and housing association tenants get the repairs and compensation they deserve. Here’s why we’re the best choice:

✅ Expert Legal Support – Our experienced solicitors understand tenant rights and housing law.
✅ No Win, No Fee – You won’t pay anything unless we win your case.
✅ Proven Track Record – We’ve helped tenants successfully claim compensation.
✅ Hassle-Free Process – We handle everything, so you don’t have to.