Frequently Asked Questions – Housing Disrepair Claims

If you're renting from the council or a housing association and living with unsafe or poor housing conditions, you're not alone. Many tenants are unsure of their rights or how to take action. Below are the most commonly asked questions about housing disrepair claims — and clear answers to help you understand your options.

At Home Justice Solutions, we work with tenants across the UK to secure repairs, compensation and peace of mind.

🔧 What is a housing disrepair claim?

A housing disrepair claim is a legal route that tenants can take when their landlord fails to repair serious issues in their rented property. If you've reported problems like damp, mould, leaks, heating faults, or pests — and your landlord hasn't acted — you may be entitled to:

✅ Free professional repairs
✅ Financial compensation (often £1,000–£10,000+)
✅ Legal support without going to court in most cases

Visit our How It Works page to learn more about the full process.

🏠 What issues can I claim for?

There are many types of disrepair that may qualify for legal action. These include:

Black mould or rising damp
Leaks from pipes, ceilings or roofs
Broken or faulty heating and hot water systems
Infestations of mice, rats or cockroaches
Exposed electrics or broken light fixtures
Cracks in walls, ceilings or broken windows

For full details, visit our Claim Types page.

📝 Do I qualify for a housing disrepair claim?

You likely qualify if:

You are a council tenant or live in a housing association property
You've reported the problems to your landlord, housing officer or repairs team
The landlord failed to act within a reasonable timeframe

Know your legal rights as a tenant or check if you qualify in 60 seconds using our free online form.

💷 How much compensation can I claim?

Compensation varies depending on the severity and duration of the disrepair. You may receive:

Up to 100% of rent refunded for the affected period
Money for stress, inconvenience, or health issues
Repairs carried out at no cost to you

Most claims settle between £1,000 and £10,000+. Read our Claim Types to see examples of common cases.

⚖️ Is it free to make a disrepair claim?

Yes. We only work with no win, no fee solicitors. That means:

No upfront cost
Nothing to pay unless your case succeeds
Fees come from the compensation – not your pocket

This makes the process risk-free for tenants. See how we help on our About Us page.

⏱️ How long does a housing disrepair claim take?

Most claims are resolved in 3 to 6 months. More complex cases involving structural issues or health damage may take slightly longer. Your solicitor will keep you informed every step of the way.

Learn more about the process on our How It Works page.

👨‍⚖️ Will I need to go to court?

In most cases, no court appearance is required. Most housing disrepair claims are settled through negotiation or mediation. If a court appearance is ever needed, your solicitor will handle everything and may not require you to attend in person.

🚫 Can my landlord evict me for making a claim?

No. It is illegal for a landlord to evict you simply for reporting problems or starting a claim. This is known as a retaliatory eviction and is prohibited under UK housing law. If you're worried about this, our legal partners can offer guidance and protection.

Know your rights by visiting the Tenant Rights page.

🛠️ What evidence do I need?

Evidence helps strengthen your case. We recommend:

Photos or videos of the disrepair
Copies of any complaints or emails sent to your landlord
Doctor’s notes if you’ve suffered health issues
Receipts for damaged items (e.g. bedding, clothing)

Your solicitor will advise you if anything else is needed.

🚀 How do I start my disrepair claim?

Ready to take action? It’s quick and easy to get started. Click below to fill in a short form — no phone calls, no appointments, and no obligation: