Introduction
Every tenant in the UK has a legal right to live in a home that is safe, healthy, and fit for habitation. But what if your rental property is so poorly maintained that it puts your health or safety at risk? Many tenants aren’t aware that they may be entitled to housing disrepair compensation if their home is legally deemed “unfit for living.”
At Housing Disrepair Team, we specialise in helping tenants identify and act on poor housing conditions. If your landlord is neglecting serious issues in your home, you may be able to make a housing disrepair claim—and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
What Does “Unfit for Living” Legally Mean?
Under the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018, landlords in England must ensure that rented homes are fit for human habitation both at the beginning and throughout the tenancy.
A home is considered legally unfit for living if:
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It poses a serious risk to the tenant’s health or safety
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It’s in a condition that makes it dangerous or inhabitable
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It contains one or more severe hazards as defined by the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS)
Top Signs Your Home May Be Legally Uninhabitable
Here are some of the most common signs that your property may be legally unfit to live in—and that you may be eligible for a compensation claim for housing disrepair:
1. Severe Damp and Mould
Persistent mould growth, especially in bedrooms and living areas, is one of the most common signs of a home that’s not fit for human habitation. It can cause or worsen respiratory illnesses, skin conditions, and mental health issues.
2. Broken or Unsafe Heating Systems
If your home lacks proper heating, especially during the winter months, it could be considered uninhabitable. This includes:
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Non-functioning boilers
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Broken radiators
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No hot water
3. Pest Infestations
Rats, mice, cockroaches, or other pests are a serious health hazard. If your landlord refuses to act, this can form the basis of a housing disrepair claim.
4. Water Leaks and Structural Damage
Leaking roofs, ceilings, or pipes not only damage your possessions but can make the home unsafe due to the risk of collapse or electrical hazards.
5. Unsafe Electrical Installations
Exposed wiring, broken sockets, or frequent power outages put tenants at real risk of shock or fire.
6. Broken Doors or Windows
These are not just an inconvenience—they pose a security risk. A home that cannot be locked properly is not legally secure or habitable.
7. Lack of Clean Water or Sanitation
If you have no working toilet, bath, shower, or kitchen sink, your home does not meet the legal standards for habitation.
What Should You Do if You Recognise These Issues?
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Report the Problem to Your Landlord
Always inform your landlord in writing (email or letter) and give them a chance to fix the problem. -
Document the Issues
Take photos, keep a diary of events, and gather any medical records or expense receipts. -
Keep a Record of All Communication
Save every email, letter, or message between you and your landlord. -
Contact Housing Disrepair Team
If your landlord ignores your complaint or delays repairs, our housing disrepair experts can take legal action to get your home fixed and win you compensation.
How Much Compensation Could You Receive?
If your property is legally unfit and your landlord refuses to carry out repairs, you may be entitled to:
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General damages for stress, inconvenience, and health effects
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Special damages for any financial loss (damaged items, extra heating, medical costs)
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Rent compensation based on the severity and length of the disrepair
The value of your housing disrepair compensation claim will depend on how badly your living conditions have been affected.
Real-Life Scenario
Tenant: Elderly couple in Liverpool
Issue: Severe damp and no heating for 14 months
Landlord: Local housing association
Action: Tenant contacted Housing Disrepair Team
Result:
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£9,500 compensation awarded
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Full repair order issued
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Heating system replaced and walls treated
This is just one example of how Housing Disrepair Team helps tenants reclaim their rights.
Why Choose Housing Disrepair Team?
We are among the best housing disrepair solicitors in the UK, with years of experience in helping tenants living in poor conditions. Here’s why tenants trust us:
✅ No Win, No Fee
✅ Free case evaluation
✅ Experienced solicitors specialising in disrepair claims
✅ Fast action and regular updates
✅ We handle cases against councils and housing associations
If you’re living in a home that’s unsafe or unfit, our housing disrepair solicitors are ready to take your case seriously.
Your Rights as a Tenant
It’s important to remember:
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You have a right to live in a safe, well-maintained home
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Your landlord has a legal duty to carry out repairs
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You can’t be evicted for making a disrepair claim
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You may be entitled to thousands in compensation
Whether you rent from a private landlord or social housing provider, Housing Disrepair Team is here to support you.
Final Thoughts
No one should have to suffer in silence in a home that’s dangerous or unhealthy. If your landlord refuses to carry out essential repairs, you may be legally entitled to take action.
At Housing Disrepair Team, we help tenants hold landlords accountable and get the justice and compensation they deserve. If you’re unsure whether your home is unfit for living, let our experts assess your situation—completely free.
