What is the Disrepair Law in the UK? | A Guide for Tenants

In the UK, tenants have a legal right to live in a property that is safe, clean, and well-maintained. If your landlord fails to carry out necessary repairs, UK disrepair laws protect you — and you may be entitled to compensation.


At Housing Disrepair Team UK, we help tenants take action under UK disrepair law when landlords neglect their responsibilities. We offer no win, no fee legal support to secure repairs and claim damages.

 What is Housing Disrepair?

Disrepair means your home has fallen into an unsafe or unhealthy condition due to neglect or lack of maintenance by the landlord.

This can include:

  • Damp and mould


  • Leaks or water damage


  • Faulty heating, plumbing, or electrics


  • Structural problems


  • Broken doors, windows, or roofs


  • Vermin or pest infestations



 Key UK Laws That Protect Tenants

Here are the main laws that form the basis of housing disrepair claims in the UK:

1. Landlord and Tenant Act 1985


Requires landlords to:

  • Keep the structure and exterior in good repair


  • Maintain water, gas, electricity, heating systems


  • Ensure homes are safe and functional



2. Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018


All rental properties must be fit for human habitation at the beginning and throughout the tenancy. Landlords can be held legally responsible if a home becomes unfit to live in.

3. Environmental Protection Act 1990


Used to tackle hazards like damp, mould, or infestations if they affect health.

 Tenant Responsibilities

While landlords have clear duties, tenants must:

  • Report repairs promptly


  • Avoid causing damage through negligence


  • Allow access for inspections and repairs



 What if My Landlord Ignores Repairs?

If your landlord fails to act after you report the issue:

  1. Send a written complaint with photos or evidence


  2. Keep a record of all communication


  3. Seek legal advice if no response is given



You may then be able to make a housing disrepair claim to get:

  • The necessary repairs completed


  • Financial compensation for inconvenience, health issues, or damaged belongings



 What Compensation Can You Claim?

Depending on the extent of the disrepair, you may be eligible for:

  • £500 – £1,500 for minor inconvenience


  • £2,000 – £5,000 for moderate property damage or distress


  • £5,000+ for severe, long-term neglect or health impact



 How Housing Disrepair Team UK Can Help

We are legal experts dedicated to tenant rights and housing disrepair law. Our process is simple:

  •   Free case review
     

  •  No win, no fee service


  •   We manage everything — from evidence to legal action


  •   Fast, UK-wide support


Whether your landlord is ignoring mould, leaks, or major issues, we’re here to help you get justice.

 Need Help? Claim Your Rights Today

Don’t let your landlord's neglect ruin your home or health. Disrepair law is on your side — and so are we.

 

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