No tenant should have to put up with a home that feels more like a survival challenge than a safe living space. Yet, many tenants in the UK are dealing with damp walls, faulty plumbing, or broken heating that landlords seem to ignore.
Here’s the thing: if you’ve been paying rent, you’ve done your part. It’s your landlord’s responsibility to maintain the property, and when they fail to do so, you don’t just have to accept it—you can take action.
This blog dives into the 10 most common housing disrepair issues tenants face, how they can impact your life, and what you can do to fix them (and maybe even get compensation). Let’s get started.
Damp and Mold: More Than Just an Eyesore
The Issue:
Damp and mold are two of the most common complaints in rented properties, often caused by leaks, poor ventilation, or rising damp.
Why It Matters:
- Health Risks: Mold can cause or worsen respiratory issues, particularly in children and elderly tenants.
- Property Damage: It can ruin walls, furniture, and even clothing.
Your Action Plan:
- Take photos of the affected areas, ensuring you capture the scale of the problem.
- Notify your landlord immediately and request repairs to resolve the cause (e.g., fixing leaks or improving ventilation).
- If they fail to act, consult a solicitor to file a damp and mold compensation claim.
2. Leaking Roofs and Ceilings
The Issue
A leaking roof isn’t just inconvenient—it can lead to water damage, damp patches, and structural instability.
Why It Matters:
- Safety Concerns: Leaks can weaken ceilings, increasing the risk of collapse.
- Increased Costs: Repairs only get more expensive the longer the issue is ignored.
Your Action Plan:
- Document the leak and any resulting damage with photos and videos.
- Write to your landlord outlining the urgency of the issue.
- If ignored, contact a solicitor to pursue a housing disrepair claim.
3. Faulty Heating Systems: Staying Warm Isn’t a Luxury
The Issue:
No one should have to endure freezing temperatures in their own home. Broken boilers, radiators, or inadequate heating are common tenant complaints, especially in winter.
Why It Matters:
- Health Risks: Prolonged exposure to cold can lead to illnesses like hypothermia or worsen existing conditions.
- Unlivable Conditions: A home without heating is not legally habitable.
Your Action Plan:
- Report heating issues immediately, especially during colder months.
- If your landlord doesn’t act, seek legal advice to claim compensation for heating disrepair.
4. Plumbing Problems: Leaks, Blockages, and Bursts
The Issue:
From blocked drains to burst pipes, plumbing issues can make daily life unbearable.
Why It Matters:
- Water Damage: Leaks can destroy furniture, flooring, and walls.
- Hygiene Risks: Blocked drains and toilets can create unsanitary living conditions.
Your Action Plan:
- Take immediate steps to mitigate damage (e.g., shutting off the water supply).
- Inform your landlord and request urgent repairs.
- If unresolved, a housing disrepair solicitor can help you file a claim.
5. Structural Damage: When Your Home Feels Unsafe
The Issue:
Cracks in walls, unstable flooring, or wobbly staircases aren’t just cosmetic problems—they’re safety hazards.
Why It Matters:
- Tenant Safety: Structural damage can lead to accidents or injuries.
- Property Value: Left unaddressed, these issues can worsen and become more costly to repair.
Your Action Plan:
- Report the issue to your landlord with detailed evidence of the damage.
- Highlight safety concerns to expedite repairs.
- If ignored, file a claim to ensure repairs are made.
6. Pest Infestations: When You’re Sharing Your Home
The Issue:
Mice, rats, or insects often appear due to poor property maintenance, like broken seals or unaddressed waste.
Why It Matters:
- Health Risks: Pests carry diseases that can harm tenants.
- Property Damage: Rodents can chew through wires, furniture, and insulation.
Your Action Plan:
- Document signs of infestation, such as droppings or nests.
- Notify your landlord and request professional pest control.
- Escalate legally if your landlord fails to act.
7. Electrical Hazards: A Shocking Problem
The Issue:
Outdated wiring, exposed cables, or broken sockets can lead to electrical accidents.
Why It Matters:
- Safety Risks: Faulty electrics can cause shocks, fires, or worse.
Your Action Plan:
- Report electrical issues as soon as they arise.
- If ignored, consult a solicitor to ensure repairs are prioritized.
8. Poor Insulation: The Hidden Cost
The Issue:
Drafty windows, poorly insulated walls, or unsealed doors can drive up energy bills.
Why It Matters:
- Energy Costs: Tenants shouldn’t bear the burden of inefficient properties.
Your Action Plan:
- Request insulation improvements from your landlord.
- If denied, include it in a larger housing disrepair claim.
9. Broken Windows and Doors
The Issue:
Faulty windows or doors compromise security and comfort.
Why It Matters:
- Safety Risks: Broken locks or unstable frames make homes vulnerable to break-ins.
Your Action Plan:
- Request repairs immediately, especially if security is compromised.
- Document all communication for future legal claims.
10. Incomplete Repairs: When Quick Fixes Don’t Cut It
The Issue:
Temporary solutions or poorly executed repairs often leave tenants stuck with the same problems.
Why It Matters:
- Recurring Issues: Incomplete repairs mean problems persist.
Your Action Plan:
- Insist on permanent fixes and provide evidence of repeat issues.
- Seek legal support to hold your landlord accountable.
200+ Tenants Helped Across the UK
At Housing Disrepair Experts, we’ve assisted over 200 tenants in securing repairs and compensation for issues just like these. With offices in Bradford, Blackburn, and nationwide support, we’re here to help you take back control of your home.
Conclusion:
Housing disrepair doesn’t have to disrupt your life. If your landlord isn’t meeting their responsibilities, you have the power to act. Reach out to professionals who specialize in housing disrepair claims:
Housing Disrepair Experts
- Phone: 01274 488877
- Email: enquiries@housingdisrepairexperts.co.uk
