Winter in the UK brings harsh weather conditions, often exposing or worsening housing disrepair issues. We understand how frustrating and unsafe it can be to live in a home with unresolved problems during this challenging season. This guide will help you understand common winter disrepair issues, how to address them, and when to seek legal assistance.
Housing disrepair refers to damage or faults in your home that make it unsafe or unsuitable to live in. Whether you rent a council property or housing association accommodation, it's your landlord's legal responsibility to ensure your home is safe, habitable, and well-maintained.
Landlords are responsible for:
Winter weather often worsens existing problems or introduces new ones. Common issues include:
Your landlord is legally obligated to address disrepair issues once notified. If they fail to act, this could amount to negligence, especially if the disrepair leads to further damage or harm to you and your family. Examples of negligence include:
If your landlord fails to resolve the issue within a reasonable time, typically one month, you may have grounds to file a housing disrepair claim.
While waiting for repairs, you can take steps to protect yourself and your family:
Winter months bring harsh weather conditions, including cold temperatures, heavy rain, and frost, which can significantly worsen housing disrepair issues. Structural vulnerabilities, such as cracks in walls, broken windows, or roof leaks, are exacerbated by freezing and thawing cycles, leading to further damage. Damp and mould become more prevalent as colder temperatures create condensation, especially in poorly ventilated homes. Additionally, heating systems are under greater strain during winter, making breakdowns more likely. These issues not only make homes uncomfortable and unsafe but can also increase utility costs and health risks, particularly for vulnerable residents such as children and the elderly.
If your landlord neglects their duty of care and your disrepair issue persists or worsens, you may be entitled to compensation. A successful housing disrepair claim can cover:
Housing disrepair solicitors can assist tenants in holding landlords accountable for failing to maintain their properties. They provide expert guidance, help gather evidence such as photos and correspondence, and ensure tenants understand their rights. Solicitors negotiate with landlords to secure timely repairs and, if necessary, pursue compensation for personal injuries, damage to belongings, or inconvenience caused by the disrepair. With professional support, tenants can achieve safer, more habitable living conditions without the stress of navigating legal complexities alone.
A family of four lived in a rented council property where persistent damp and mould spread across the walls and ceilings. Despite repeatedly notifying their landlord, the issue was ignored, leading to worsening conditions. The damp caused the youngest child to develop respiratory issues, and the family had to replace mould-damaged furniture and clothing.
The family contacted a housing disrepair solicitor, who advised them to document the damage with photos and medical records. The team submitted a housing disrepair claim, highlighting the landlord's negligence and the impact on the family's health and belongings.
The landlord was ordered to carry out repairs, including re-plastering and installing proper ventilation. The family also received £9,000 in compensation for health impacts, replacement costs, and inconvenience.