General Advice Sheet: Housing Disrepair

If you are living in a rented property that is in poor condition, you have a right to ask your landlord to carry out repairs. This advice sheet explains what housing disrepair is, what your landlord’s responsibilities are, and what steps you can take to protect your health, safety and rights.

What is Housing Disrepair?

Housing disrepair refers to situations where a rented property has defects or hazards that make it unsafe, unhealthy, or uncomfortable to live in. Examples include damp and mould, leaks, broken heating systems, faulty electrics, broken windows, structural damage, or pest infestations.

Landlord Responsibilities

Under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 and the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018, landlords must ensure that their properties are safe, healthy, and suitable for people to live in. This includes keeping in good repair the structure and exterior of the property, as well as the installations for water, gas, electricity, heating, and sanitation.

Your landlord must:

• Keep the property free from serious hazards (such as damp, mould, leaks, or electrical faults).

• Carry out repairs within a reasonable time after being notified of the problem.

• Ensure heating, hot water, gas and electrical systems are working properly.

• Keep communal areas (stairs, halls, shared gardens) safe and maintained.

Your responsibilities as a Tenant

Tenants are responsible for keeping their homes reasonably clean, using fixtures and fittings properly, and reporting problems promptly. You should not attempt major repairs yourself unless agreed with the landlord in writing.

How to report disrepair

1. Report the problem to your landlord in writing (email or letter). Always keep a copy.

2. Describe the issue clearly and include dates and photos if possible.

3. Ask the landlord to confirm when they will inspect and repair the issue.

4. Keep a record of all communication and any health effects or expenses incurred.

Awaab’s Law

From October 2025, new rules (Awaab’s Law) will require social landlords to investigate and repair serious hazards like damp and mould within strict time limits. This law strengthens tenant protection and ensures faster responses to hazardous conditions.

Taking further action

If your landlord fails to carry out repairs within a reasonable time, you can:

• Make a formal complaint through your landlord’s complaints process.

• Contact your local council’s Environmental Health Department to inspect your home.

• Report persistent issues to the Housing Ombudsman (for social housing tenants).

• Seek legal advice about making a housing disrepair claim for compensation or repairs.

Practical Tips for Tenants

• Always report issues as soon as they arise.

• Keep a diary of problems, communications, and repairs.

• Take dated photographs of all defects.

• Keep receipts for any related costs (like extra heating or damaged belongings).

• If your health is affected, seek medical advice promptly and keep records.