Your home should be a place of comfort, safety, and peace of mind—but what happens when it turns into a source of stress, health hazards, or even danger? Across the UK, countless tenants are forced to live in substandard housing conditions due to negligent landlords who fail to carry out necessary repairs. From mouldy walls and pest infestations to faulty heating systems and leaking roofs, these issues are not just frustrating—they could also make your home legally unfit for habitation.
If you're facing housing problems and your landlord continues to ignore your complaints, it's time to take control and understand your rights. In situations like these, it’s wise to get help from experienced housing disrepair solicitors who can guide you through the claims process, help you get the repairs you need, and secure the compensation you deserve. Companies like InstantAssist specialise in helping tenants take legal action with no-win, no-fee services, making the process as stress-free as possible.
What Makes a Home Unfit to Live In?
The Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 outlines a range of conditions that could render a property uninhabitable. If your rental home falls short in any of the following areas, it may be considered legally unfit:
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Serious damp or mould growth
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Persistent water leaks or drainage issues
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Infestations of rats, mice, or insects
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Lack of proper heating or hot water
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Unsafe electrics or gas fittings
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Broken windows and doors
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Cracked walls or ceilings that pose structural risks
If any of these problems are affecting your living conditions, it’s your legal right to demand that your landlord take immediate action.
Your Landlord’s Legal Responsibilities
Landlords are legally obligated to keep their rental properties in a habitable condition. That includes:
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Carrying out necessary repairs to the structure and exterior of the property
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Ensuring the supply of water, gas, electricity, and heating is working properly
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Addressing any reported issues such as leaks, damp, or pests in a timely manner
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Keeping communal areas in a good state of repair
Failing to fulfil these responsibilities is not just unethical—it’s illegal. You have the right to live in a safe, warm, and secure home.
What Should You Do If Your Landlord Ignores Repairs?
If you’ve already informed your landlord about the issue and they’ve failed to take reasonable action, here are the steps you can take:
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Document Everything
Take photos or videos of the disrepair. Keep copies of all correspondence between you and your landlord. -
Report It in Writing
Always follow up verbal reports with emails or written letters so there’s a paper trail of your request. -
Contact a Professional
Legal experts like InstantAssist can assess your situation and help you pursue a housing disrepair claim. With a no-win, no-fee model, you don’t have to worry about upfront costs.
Why File a Housing Disrepair Claim?
Filing a claim isn’t just about getting your home fixed. It’s also about:
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Ensuring your health and safety
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Holding negligent landlords accountable
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Receiving compensation for inconvenience, health issues, or property damage
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Preventing similar treatment for other tenants
Housing disrepair doesn’t just affect your comfort—it can impact your physical and mental well-being. Don’t delay taking action if your home is causing you distress.
How InstantAssist Can Help
At InstantAssist, we understand the challenges tenants face when dealing with housing disrepair. Our dedicated team of housing disrepair solicitors offers a fast and efficient claims process, giving you the support you need every step of the way. Whether you're dealing with damp and mould, heating issues, or rodent infestations, we’ll handle your case with professionalism and care.
We operate on a no-win, no-fee basis, so there’s no financial risk to you. Our goal is to ensure you live in a safe, secure, and comfortable environment—just as the law intends.
Final Thoughts
No one should be forced to live in dangerous or unsanitary conditions—especially when the law is on your side. If you suspect that your rental home is legally unfit to live in, don't wait. Reach out to qualified professionals who can help you take action.
With the right support, you can make your landlord responsible and get the home—and the compensation—you deserve. Trust InstantAssist to help you restore your rights and reclaim your comfort.
