Imagine waking up every morning to damp-stained ceilings, the smell of mould creeping into your lungs, or freezing showers because your boiler hasn’t worked in months.
It’s more than just inconvenient, it’s unacceptable.
If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Across the UK, thousands of tenants are living in unfit and unsafe homes – and most don’t realise that they have a legal right to fight back.
So, what is housing disrepair, and how can you take action?
We’re here to help and break it all down below.
What is Disrepair in Housing?
Housing disrepair is when your rented home falls into poor or dangerous condition because your landlord hasn’t kept up their legal responsibilities.
Some of the responsibilities that need attention are:
- Black mould or severe damp
- Broken heating systems
- Leaky roofs
- Unsafe wiring or plumbing
- Pest infestations like rats, cockroaches or bedbugs
This isn’t just bad luck – it could be a breach of your rights. Landlords have a legal duty to keep their properties in good repair. If they’ve failed to do so despite being asked, you may be entitled to compensation for the inconvenience, health issues, or damage caused, as well as action to get the repairs completed.”
Already know you’re living in disrepair? Start your housing disrepair claim with CEL today.
What is a Housing Disrepair Claim?
A housing disrepair claim is a legal process that helps tenants hold their landlords accountable when they fail to carry out important repairs.
You can claim compensation for:
- Living in poor conditions
- Damage to your belongings
- Health problems caused by disrepair
- Emotional stress or hardship
At CEL Solicitors, we help everyday people stand up to councils, housing associations and private landlords who have neglected their legal duties. We don’t believe anyone should feel unsafe, unheard or powerless in their own home – and we’ll fight to put things right.
What Does the Law Say About Housing Disrepair?
When it comes to housing disrepair, the law requires landlords to:
- Keeping the structure and exterior of the home in good condition
- Ensuring plumbing, electrics, heating and gas are working safely
- Fixing issues like mould, leaks, infestations or structural damage
- Making timely repairs once you’ve reported a problem
How Do I Know If I Have a Housing Disrepair Claim?
You might not realise it, but if your landlord has failed to act after you’ve reported serious issues, you likely have a valid claim.
You may be eligible if:
- You’ve reported an issue and have been ignored
- Repairs were done, but the problem keeps coming back
- You or your family are suffering from health issues caused by the property
- Your furniture or belongings are damaged
- You feel stressed, anxious or trapped in a home that’s falling apart
“I can’t decorate because the mould continues to come back through the walls. It doesn’t give me the ambition to do anything with it…I’m really not sure how much more of this we can take.”
Millie Birmingham, CEL client. Read Millie’s story.
What Should I Do Next?
Here’s what you should do right now if you’re facing disrepair:
1. Keep Evidence
Take photos, save texts and emails and keep a record of what you’ve reported.
2. Notify Your Landlord
If you haven’t already, put the issue in writing and give them time to respond.
3. Speak to CEL Solicitors
Contact our expert housing disrepair team, and we will assess your case, explain your rights in an easy-to-understand way, and handle your claim from start to finish.
Why Tenants Trust CEL Solicitors
We’ve helped thousands of tenants get justice against neglectful landlords, and we’re proud of it.
Why choose CEL?
- Peace of mind with our no-win, no-fee guarantee
- Proven track record of successful disrepair claims
- Specialists in housing disrepair law
- A friendly and passionate team that genuinely cares
- Transparent, jargon-free legal support
We don’t just want to fix the problem – we want to empower you. You’ve got rights. You deserve respect. And you’re entitled to a safe home.
Get the Repairs and Compensation You Deserve
Are you sick of living with damp, mould, leaks or other serious housing issues?
If your landlord has failed to carry out essential repairs after you’ve reported them, they could be breaking the law, and you may be entitled to compensation.
At CEL Solicitors, we specialise in housing disrepair claims. It could be unsafe structural problems or damage to your health and belongings. We’re here to fight your corner and get your home back to the standard you deserve.
Not sure if you’re eligible to make a claim? Our team offers free, no-obligation legal advice. Call us today on 0330 029 4301 or contact us online to find out how we can help.
