Housing Disrepair Compensation: Are You Entitled To It?

Housing Disrepair Compensation: Are You Entitled To It?

Do you need advice regarding a possible housing disrepair compensation claim? If your landlord has been refusing to make necessary repairs in your home, you may be able to take them to court.

To help you decide whether it’s the right move for you, here we’ll answer some of the most common questions we hear about disrepair claims.

What are my rights as a tenant?

Many tenants are often unaware of the rights they hold when renting a property. As a tenant, you’re entitled to the following:

• A structurally sound building that is safe to live in
• Proper working drains and gutters that are free from obstruction
• An adequate heating system
• Access to water, gas and electricity
• Working sanitation. This includes basins, sinks, baths and toilets
• A home free from damp
• A home free from vermin

It’s your landlord’s job to ensure the above conditions are met, even if they say it’s your responsibility as the person living in the property.

What are the benefits of making a claim against my landlord?

There are numerous benefits to fighting for housing disrepair compensation. It can be frustrating to live in rented accommodation that doesn’t meet the standards you’d expect of a home, so accessing compensation can offer you some comfort and make up for time spent fighting for repairs to be made. If you’ve had to make any repairs yourself or you’ve paid someone else to make them, compensation can cover these costs too.

Another benefit is that you may gain a sense of satisfaction having exercised your rights. Landlords have a legal responsibility to keep their properties to a good standard and their failure to do this is against the law and unethical.

When is the right time to make a claim for disrepair?

You can make a claim for disrepair at any time during a tenancy, but it’s wise to explore other options first.

You must ask your landlord to repair issues within your home and give them a reasonable amount of time to complete the work. If you’ve asked them in person, it can be a good idea to then put it in writing – whether that’s an email or letter. If they ignore your request or refuse to carry out the changes, taking court action could help to correct the problem.

Can I be evicted for asking for repairs to be made?

If your landlord threatens to evict you after you’ve asked for repairs to be made, this is known as ‘retaliatory eviction’. Contact Citizens Advice for support if you’ve been threatened with eviction following a repair request or repair claim.

As a tenant, it’s only natural to feel vulnerable when claiming against your landlord. However, you’re entitled to a home that’s safe, hygienic and offers a certain standard of comfort. If you decide to make a claim, we can guide you through the process and help you access the housing disrepair compensation you deserve.

How much does it cost to claim for disrepair?

In many cases, no win, no fee housing disrepair claims can be made. This means that if the action is not successful, you won’t have to pay any legal fees. If the claim is successful, you will pay a fee towards the housing disrepair solicitors. The type of fee will be agreed before the process begins.

To begin a compensation claim or obtain further advice with no obligation, contact McDermott Smith Law today.