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What is Housing Disrepair?

Kayleigh Withington • 7 December 2022

Housing disrepair is a rented property in need of repair(s), in order to be safe and habitable for the tenant, also said to be ‘in a state of disrepair’.


If you are living in a rented property, your landlord has requirements by law to provide a suitable, safe and habitable property which means keeping your home in a state of repair. The main responsibilities for the landlord are;


  • Installations at the property (water, gas, sanitation, heating, and electricity etc.)
  • Structure of the property (drains, gutters, pipes, walls, flooring etc.)


Having the above in good condition/up to standard, makes the home fit for human habitation.


Issues that are considered ‘disrepair’:


  • Vermin infestations
  • Faulty / unsafe electrics
  • Damp
  • Mould
  • Gas leaks
  • Water leaks
  • Roof issues
  • Loose or missing roof tiles
  • Faulty heating/water
  • Structural cracks
  • Flooring issues


If you feel your property may be in a state of disrepair, report this to your landlord. Read our guide if you are unsure on how to start.

 

They should address the report by carrying out the necessary repairs needed, within a reasonable time frame. You should not pay for any repairs yourself or be blamed. In some cases, the state of disrepair can be classed as emergency, for example not being able to live at the home or have no access to water/heating.


If you have raised your concerns to your council or housing association landlord and they have failed to carry out said repairs, within 2-3 months, you may be able to start a Housing Disrepair Claim.


We invite you to contact our expert housing disrepair team if this is the case. We are specialists in this area with a proven history of guaranteeing repairs within a set time frame and where possible, claiming compensation on your behalf. Working under a no win – no fee agreement, at no point would you be charged, win, or lose.


Please call 0800 610 2223 or email info@mlasolicitors.co.uk. Alternatively, please fill in the contact form on our website or reach out on social media. Our team can arrange either a telephone, email, WhatsApp, video call or in person conversation.


Whatever your situation, we can help. We are happy to answer any questions you may have and guide you in the right direction. 

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