When people think of housing disrepair, they usually think of black mould or a collapsed ceiling. But many tenants are living with “silent” issues that are just as illegal and just as dangerous.
If you’ve been “putting up” with a faulty heater or a stiff window, you might be sitting on a valid claim for compensation. Here are five often-overlooked issues that your landlord is legally required to repair.
1. Faulty Wiring and Electrical Hazards
If your circuit breaker trips constantly, your sockets have scorch marks, or your lights flicker, your home may be an electrical fire risk. Under the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020, landlords must ensure all electrical installations are safe.
The Risk: Fire, electric shock, and damage to your personal appliances.
2. Defective Windows and External Doors
A window that won’t close properly or a door that lets in a draft isn’t just an inconvenience—it’s a security and energy efficiency issue. If your home is impossible to keep warm because of “blown” double glazing or rotten frames, your landlord is failing their duty.
The Claim: You can often claim for the “excessive” heating bills caused by heat loss.
3. Issues with “Sanitation”
If your toilet takes three flushes to work, your sinks drain at a snail’s pace, or there is a persistent smell of sewage, the internal plumbing is likely failing. Landlords are responsible for keeping the “installations for the supply of water, gas, electricity, and sanitation” in good repair.
4. Structural Cracks and Subsidence
Small “hairline” cracks are common, but if you can fit a coin into a crack or if they appear around door frames and windows, it could indicate structural movement. This can lead to dampness, drafts, and eventually, an unsafe structure.
5. Pest Infestations Linked to Disrepair
While a landlord isn’t always responsible for a few ants, they are responsible if the infestation is caused by structural issues. Examples include:
- Rats entering through holes in the brickwork.
- Cockroaches thriving in damp, rotting floorboards.
- Pigeons nesting in a damaged roof.
“It’s Only a Small Problem…”
Tenants often wait until a problem becomes a “catastrophe” before seeking help. However, the law doesn’t require you to wait until your ceiling falls in. If a repair has been reported and ignored for more than 14 to 21 days, you have the right to take action.
Why Claim for These Issues?
- Safety First: Electrical and structural issues can be life-threatening.
- Financial Recovery: You deserve your money back for a property that is only “partially” functional.
- Forced Repairs: A legal claim moves your landlord from “I’ll get to it” to “It’s fixed”.
Your rent covers a home that is safe, secure, and fully functional. If any part of your home is failing, we can help you hold your landlord accountable.
Think you might have a “hidden” disrepair issue? [Book a Free Professional Home Survey with us today.]
