When the cold sets in and your heating stops working, it becomes more than an inconvenience. A cold home can put your health at risk and leave your family feeling unsettled and uncomfortable. It is understandable to feel frustrated, especially if you have already reported the issue and nothing has changed.
So, what happens when your landlord fails to act?
Can you claim compensation from your landlord for no heating?
Here is what you need to know and how to move forward with confidence.
Is My Landlord Responsible for Heating Repairs?
Yes. Your landlord has a legal duty to make sure your home has a safe and working heating system. Under Section 11 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, they must keep in good repair:
- The structure and exterior of the property
- Installations for water, gas and electricity
- Installations that provide space heating and hot water
This includes your boiler, radiators and the wider central heating system. Once you report a fault, your landlord must arrange repairs within a reasonable timeframe. If they ignore the problem or delay repairs without a good reason, you may be entitled to compensation from your landlord for no heating.
What Counts as a “Reasonable” Repair Time?
There is no exact legal deadline, but heating issues are generally classed as urgent, particularly in winter or where vulnerable tenants are involved.
Guidance suggests that:
- Issues like no heating or no hot water should be treated within 24 to 48 hours
- Longer delays can be seen as neglect
If you have contacted your landlord and nothing is being done, you do not need to feel stuck.
Can I Claim Compensation for No Heating?
Yes. You may be able to claim compensation from your landlord for no heating if their inaction has breached your rights as a tenant. Claims may cover:
- General damages for distress and inconvenience
- Special damages for financial losses caused by the lack of heating
- Personal injury if the cold has affected your health
Your case may fall under a housing disrepair claim, especially if the heating issue is long-term or part of a wider pattern of neglect. For a full breakdown of how these claims work, we have a simple guide on housing repair to break everything down.
When We Can Help
To bring a housing disrepair claim through the courts, the outstanding repairs usually need to be valued at more than £1000 due to the legal process involved.
If your repairs are valued under this amount, there are still support routes available:
- Council tenants can use the Housing Ombudsman or the small claims court
- Housing association tenants can use the Housing Ombudsman, Environmental Health or the small claims court
- Private tenants can report the issue to Environmental Health or use the small claims court
If you fall into the under £1000 category, you are still supported, and there are clear steps you can take. We are always happy to point you in the right direction.
What Should I Do If My Landlord Will Not Fix the Heating?
If your landlord is ignoring requests to fix your heating, you don’t have to let them get away with it. These steps can help you protect yourself and strengthen your case.
1. Report the Problem in Writing
Start by informing your landlord or letting agent about the issue in writing – either by email, text message, or through your tenancy portal if one exists.
Be specific: describe the fault, how long it’s been happening and what impact it’s having (e.g. no hot water, unable to keep warm at night, any illnesses).
Always keep a copy of this communication for your records. Verbal conversations don’t offer the same protection if the issue escalates.
2. Document Everything
Keep a clear and detailed record of the problem. Take photos and videos of broken radiators, boilers or damp caused by the cold.
Use a thermometer or heating app to log indoor temperatures if they fall below recommended levels. Your home should be able to reach around 18°C even when outside temperatures are below freezing.
If you’ve had to buy electric heaters, extra blankets, or stay elsewhere, make sure to keep receipts, as they could help support a compensation claim.
3. Keep a Record of Communication
Every message, email and attempted phone call matters. Note down the date and time of each contact, whether you received a response, and what (if anything) was promised.
If your landlord continually ignores or delays repairs, this could be considered a breach of their legal responsibilities and strengthen your case.
4. Do Not Stop Paying Rent
It may feel unfair to continue paying rent when you’re living without heating, but withholding rent can backfire and may put you at risk of eviction.
Instead, continue to follow your tenancy agreement while building your case through property channels. It’s always best to seek legal advice before taking any drastic action.
5. Contact a Solicitor
If the issue continues or forms part of wider disrepair, speak with a solicitor who specialises in housing disrepair. They can explain your rights, assess your eligibility for compensation and guide you through the legal process.
Cold Home? You Could Be Entitled to Compensation
You shouldn’t have to wait for things to get worse.
If your landlord is refusing to fix the heating, it’s time to act. The longer you’re left in these conditions, the more damage it can do to both your physical and mental well-being.
Start your housing disrepair claim with CEL Solicitors and find out how we can help you hold your landlord accountable.
Call us today on 0371 705 3346 or get in touch online for a no-win, no-fee claim.
