A safe and secure home is a basic human right. Yet, for many tenants across the UK, rental properties are falling far short of acceptable living standards. From persistent damp and mould to broken windows, pest infestations, water leaks, and faulty heating systems, these housing disrepair issues can put tenants at serious risk—both physically and mentally.
If you’re living in a rental property that feels more hazardous than homely, it’s important to understand your rights and what steps you can take to improve your living situation or seek legal redress.
At Housing Disrepair Team, we specialise in helping tenants hold landlords accountable for unsafe living conditions. As one of the best housing disrepair expert in the UK, we support tenants through every stage of the claims process—from identifying problems to securing compensation and ensuring necessary repairs are completed.
Common Signs Your Rental Property May Be Unsafe
Unsafe living conditions are not always obvious. Some may start small and escalate quickly, while others pose an immediate danger. Here are key red flags to watch for:
Damp and Mould: These are not just cosmetic issues. Mould spores can trigger serious respiratory problems, especially in children, the elderly, and people with asthma.
Water Leaks and Damages: Leaking pipes or roofs can lead to rot, electrical faults, and structural weaknesses.
Pest Infestation: Rats, mice, cockroaches, or other vermin can carry diseases and contaminate food.
Broken Heating Systems: Especially in winter, lack of adequate heating can lead to illness and discomfort.
Faulty Windows and Doors: These increase the risk of injury, burglary, or accidents—particularly dangerous for families with children.
These conditions can affect your health, security, and quality of life. Tenants have the legal right to live in a property that is safe and well-maintained.
What Are Your Rights as a Tenant?
As a tenant, your landlord is legally obligated to ensure the property meets basic safety and health standards. Under the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018, landlords must maintain their properties and carry out necessary repairs promptly.
This includes:
Ensuring the structure and exterior are in good condition
Keeping installations for gas, electricity, heating, water, and sanitation in working order
Dealing with infestations
Managing damp and condensation problems
If your landlord fails to address these issues after being informed, they may be in breach of their legal duties—and you may have grounds for a housing disrepair claim.
Steps You Can Take If Your Rental Is Unsafe
Report the Problem in Writing Always inform your landlord (or letting agent) of the issue in writing. Be specific and keep a copy for your records.
Document Everything Take dated photographs, keep records of correspondence, and gather any evidence of the impact on your health or belongings.
Give Reasonable Time for Repairs Landlords typically have 14–28 days to respond, depending on the urgency of the issue. If there’s no action, you can escalate the matter.
Seek Professional Help If your landlord refuses to act, contact a housing disrepair specialist. At Housing Disrepair Team, we provide free initial advice and no-win, no-fee claims, so there’s no financial risk to you.
Why Choose Housing Disrepair Team?
We understand how stressful it is to live in a home that doesn’t meet basic standards. At Housing Disrepair Team, we’re dedicated to ensuring tenants are protected, compensated, and supported every step of the way.
Here’s how we help:
Free assessment of your situation
No-win, no-fee legal representation
Full case management and communication with your landlord
Compensation for inconvenience, health issues, and property damage
Ensuring repairs are carried out by law
Our team works across the UK and has successfully handled hundreds of claims for tenants living in substandard housing. We make the process simple, stress-free, and effective.
Final Thoughts
No one should be forced to live in unsafe or unhealthy conditions. If your landlord is ignoring your concerns and leaving you to suffer in silence, it’s time to take action. With the right support, you can not only demand repairs but also receive the compensation you deserve for the harm caused.
Housing Disrepair Team is here to stand with you and fight for your rights. Don’t wait until things get worse—contact housing disrepair experts today and take the first step toward reclaiming your peace of mind.
