MoneyHelpHub

Housing Disrepair Claims – Get Compensation for Damp, Mould, Leaks & Unsafe Living Conditions

If your home is broken or damaged, you might be able to get it fixed and even get some money because of the problems. Talk to our housing disrepair team today to learn what your rights are and how we can help you get the repairs and compensation you need.



What are the most common types of housing disrepair issues?

Tenants can experience a wide range of problems in council and housing association properties. If your landlord has failed to repair them after being notified, you may be entitled to compensation. Here are some of the most common issues that lead to housing disrepair claims:

  • Damp and mould – walls that get wet, black spots, or rooms that smell damp.
  • Leaks and plumbing problems – dripping pipes, blocked drains, or water coming through the ceiling.
  • Broken or damaged building parts – cracks in walls, broken ceilings, loose tiles or unsafe areas.
  • No heating or hot water – the boiler not working, cold radiators or no warm water for washing.
  • Dangerous electrics – broken wires, lights that don’t work or unsafe plug sockets.
  • Pests or bugs – mice, rats, cockroaches or bedbugs in the home.
  • Broken windows or doors – things that won’t lock properly or make your home feel unsafe.
  • Roof or gutter problems – water getting in when it rains or gutters overflowing.
  • Unsafe floors – loose floorboards, ripped carpets or places where you could trip.
  • Kitchen or bathroom issues – broken taps, cracked tiles or things that don’t work properly.

These are problems that happen a lot. If they are making your home unsafe, uncomfortable or unhealthy — and your landlord won’t fix them — you may be able to get help and claim compensation.




Frequently Asked Questions

What is a housing disrepair claim?

A housing disrepair claim is a legal action you can take if your council or housing association fails to repair issues in your home—such as damp, mould, leaks, broken heating, electrical faults or structural damage. If the landlord has been informed and still hasn’t fixed the problems, you may be entitled to compensation.

Who can make a housing disrepair claim?

You can make a claim if you are a tenant in council housing or a housing association property, and your landlord has failed to make necessary repairs within a reasonable timeframe after you reported them.

What can I claim compensation for?

You may be able to claim compensation for:

  • Damp, mould and condensation damage
  • Leaks, flooding or water damage
  • Broken heating or hot water systems
  • Unsafe electrics or plumbing
  • Structural issues, cracks or subsidence
  • Damage to personal belongings
  • Illness caused by poor living conditions
  • Inconvenience and distress

How much compensation could I receive?

Compensation varies, but many tenants receive between 10%–50% of their annual rent. Serious cases can result in £1,000s in compensation, especially if the issues have been ongoing for months or years.

Do I have to let the landlord try to fix the problem first?

Yes. You must report the repair issues to your landlord first, and they must be given a reasonable amount of time to fix the problem. If they ignore you or delay repairs, you may be eligible to make a claim.

Is a housing disrepair claim No Win No Fee?

In most cases, yes. Many solicitors operate on a No Win No Fee basis, meaning you do not pay anything upfront. A fee is only charged if your claim is successful.

Will making a claim affect my tenancy?

No. It is illegal for a landlord to evict or punish you for asserting your legal rights. Council and housing association landlords must follow strict regulations that protect tenants from unfair treatment.

How long does a housing disrepair claim take?

Most cases take between 2–6 months, depending on the severity of the repairs and how quickly evidence can be gathered.

What evidence do I need?

Useful evidence includes:

  • Photos or videos of the damage
  • Copies of messages or emails sent to your landlord
  • Reports from repair teams or contractors
  • Receipts for damaged belongings
  • Medical records (if health has been affected)

What happens after I start a claim?

A specialist will assess your case, collect evidence, contact your landlord on your behalf, and negotiate repairs and compensation. Most cases are settled without going to court.

Enter your basic details

I agree to receive occasional emails & SMS messages regarding more fantastic products from MoneyHelpHub

By checking this box I agree to the MoneyHelpHub privacy policy and terms.

Continue Now Free entry limited to 1 per person per month, prize drawn at the end of every month - winner will be notified 7 days after prize draw ends. T&C's apply