When it comes to housing disrepair, the risks go far beyond inconvenience. Recent research highlights just how serious the consequences can be for families, especially those with young children living in unsafe conditions.
What does the latest research reveal?
A new analysis by the National Child Mortality Database (NCMD), led by the University of Bristol, reviewed cases of children under 11 who died after falling from windows or balconies between 1 April 2019 and 31 May 2025. The findings are stark:
- 16 children lost their lives during this period.
- In 12 of these cases (92%), the deaths occurred in flats where basic safety measures such as window locks or restrictors were missing, broken, or not in use.
- In several instances, landlords and local authorities had been told about faulty windows but failed to take timely action to fix them.
This means the true number of deaths, 16 in just over six years, is far higher than the previously reported nine. It is a devastating reminder of what can happen when housing disrepair issues are ignored.
Unsafe homes put children’s lives at risk
Living in disrepair conditions is not just stressful, it is dangerous. Faulty windows, broken locks, damp, mould, leaks, and other hazards can all put tenants at risk. For families with children, these dangers can be life-threatening.
Landlords have a legal duty to repair and maintain properties. If they fail to act when problems are reported, they can, and should, be held accountable.
GLP Solicitors: How we secure repair and compensation for tenants
At GLP Solicitors, we support tenants who are forced to live in unsafe or poorly maintained housing. If your landlord has ignored your complaints about disrepair, we can help you:
- Get repairs carried out quickly to make your home safe.
- Claim compensation for the harm and distress caused by your landlord’s neglect.
- Hold your landlord accountable so that no family has to suffer avoidable risks.
We understand how worrying it is to raise children in unsafe housing, and we are here to stand with you.
Take action today
No tenant should live in fear because of their landlord’s neglect. If you are living in a property with housing disrepair, especially one that poses risks to your children, contact GLP Solicitors today. We will help you secure the repairs you need and fight for the compensation you deserve.
- Email us: enquiries@glplaw.com
- Call us: 0800 111 6370
- Learn more about our housing disrepair and tenancy deposit claim services: www.tenantcompensation.org
