HOUSING DISREPAIR CLAIMS
Have you been living in a council or housing association property? Where you have complained numerous of times regarding disrepair to your property and they have neglected to carry out necessary repairs for more than 3 months? You could be entitled to compensation as well as a refund on any rent paid during this period.
As a tenant, it’s your council or housing association’s responsibility to ensure that your home is in good condition and free from any hazards that may endanger your health or safety. If your council or housing association neglects their responsibilities and your home is having disrepair, you may have the right to file a housing disrepair claim against them.
Making a housing disrepair claim can be complex, but taking action is essential if you live in unsafe or unhealthy conditions. Here is all the information you need to make a successful claim and get your deserved compensation.
Table Of Contents
- What is Housing Disrepair?
- How to Identify Housing Disrepair Issues
- Council or Housing Association’s Responsibilities
- Making a Housing Disrepair Claim
- Evidence Required for a Housing Disrepair Claim
- What Happens After You Make a Claim
- FAQs
Understanding Housing Disrepair
Housing disrepair refers to any issues that affect the condition of your home and impact your health, safety, or quality of life. Some common examples of housing disrepair include:
- Damp or mould
- Leaks or water damage
- Broken heating or hot water systems
- Structural damage to the property
- Pest infestations
- Electrical problems
- Poor insulation or ventilation
If you’re experiencing any of these issues, taking action as soon as possible is essential.
How To Identify Housing Disrepair Issues
Identifying housing disrepair issues can be difficult, especially if you’re unsure what to look for. Here are some signs that your home may be in disrepair:
- Damp patches or mould on walls or ceilings
- Cracks in walls or ceilings
- Leaking taps or pipes
- No hot water or heating
- Broken windows or doors
- Pest infestations
- Electrical problems
- Unpleasant smells
If you notice any of these issues, it’s important to report them to your local council or housing association as soon as possible.
Council Or Housing Association's Responsibilities
Your council and housing association are legally responsible for ensuring your home is safe and in good condition. This includes:
- Keeping the property structurally sound
- Ensuring that the property is free from hazards
- Providing adequate heating and hot water
- Ensuring that the property is well-maintained
- Repairing any damage caused by their negligence
- Providing access to basic amenities such as water, gas, and electricity
If your housing provider fails to meet these obligations, they may be in breach of their contract.
Consider Mediation
Mediation is a viable method for settling housing disrepair claims without legal proceedings and can produce positive results. A mediator performs as a neutral third party and helps you and your council or housing association find a mutually acceptable solution. This can be a quicker, cheaper, and less stressful way of resolving the issue compared to going to court. Mediation is particularly useful when both parties are willing to negotiate and find a resolution.
Making A Housing Disrepair Claim
Report the Issue to Your Council or Housing Association
Allow Time for Repairs to Be Carried Out
Seek Legal Advice
Gather Evidence
To increase the chances of making a successful housing disrepair claim, it’s essential to gather as much evidence as possible. This evidence should include photographs of the disrepair, medical reports detailing any injuries or illnesses caused by the disrepair, and witness statements from anyone who has seen or experienced the disrepair. It’s important to document any disrepair’s impact on your health and safety, such as asthma caused by mould or injuries caused by a faulty staircase. Having more evidence will make your case stronger.
Evidence Required For A Housing Disrepair Claim
For a successful housing disrepair claim, you will need to provide evidence of the disrepair and its impact on your health and safety. Here are some types of evidence that may be useful:
- Photographs or videos of the disrepair
- Medical reports or records
- Witness statements from neighbours or professionals who have seen the disrepair
- Repair quotes or invoices
- Correspondence with your council or housing association
What Happens After You Claim
After you make a housing disrepair claim, your council or housing association will have a fixed response period. They may agree to carry out repairs, offer you compensation, or deny liability.
If your claim is successful, you may be entitled to compensation for any losses or expenses incurred due to the disrepair. This can include:
- Costs of repairs
- Compensation for any injuries or illnesses you have suffered
- Payment for any damage to your personal belongings
- Compensation for any other losses or expenses incurred as a result of the disrepair
We offer hassle-free housing disrepair claims services with the best solicitors, offering a No Win, No Fee agreement. We know the importance of having a safe and habitable home, and we’re here to help you get the compensation you deserve. Our team of experienced solicitors will handle your case professionally and efficiently, so you can get back to living in a property that meets your needs. Get in touch with us now to book a consultation and start your claim process.
FAQs
Yes, council tenants can claim housing disrepair if their rented property is in disrepair.
Many housing solicitors offer a ‘no win, no fee agreement for housing disrepair claims. This implies that you will not be liable to pay any legal fees in case your claim fails.
If your local council or housing association refuses to pay the compensation you are entitled to, you can take legal action to enforce the judgment. This can involve taking further legal action or hiring bailiffs to seize their assets.
The time it takes to resolve a housing disrepair case can vary, depending on its complexity. It can take a few months or even a year or more.
No, it is illegal for a council or housing association to evict a tenant for making a housing disrepair claim.
