If you’ve been living in poor housing conditions—like mould, damp, leaks, broken heating, or unsafe electrics—and your landlord has failed to fix the issue, you’re not just entitled to repairs.

You could also be entitled to financial compensation.

Compensation is a way to hold landlords accountable and reimburse tenants for inconvenience, health problems, damage to belongings, and additional costs caused by disrepair.

This guide explains:

• What you can claim for

• How much you might get

• What affects your compensation amount

1. What Can You Claim Compensation For?

UK tenants can claim for several types of loss or damage due to housing disrepair. Here’s a breakdown:

✅ General Inconvenience

If you couldn’t use a room (e.g. mouldy bedroom, broken bathroom) or your daily life was disrupted, you can claim for loss of enjoyment or discomfort.

✅ Damage to Belongings

Disrepair can ruin personal property, such as:

• Mould-damaged clothes, shoes, curtains or carpets

• Water-damaged furniture or bedding

• Electrical faults damaging appliances or devices

✅ Personal Injury

If the disrepair caused or worsened a health condition, you may claim for:

• Asthma or breathing issues (often linked to damp or mould)

• Skin problems or infections

• Anxiety, stress, or depression

• Injuries from falls (e.g. broken stairs or unsafe flooring)

This can also include medical costs, therapy fees, or prescription expenses.

✅ Financial Losses

You can recover money you had to spend because of the disrepair, such as:

• Higher heating bills due to broken insulation or heating

• Hotel costs if you had to move out temporarily

• Missed work or loss of income from being unwell or needing time off

2. How Much Can I Claim?

There’s no fixed amount, but claims are usually calculated based on:

• How bad the problem is

• How long it lasted

• How it affected you and your property

💷 Typical Compensation Ranges:

In extreme cases where the home was completely uninhabitable, tenants have received 100% rent back for up to 12 months.

3. What Factors Affect How Much I Can Claim?

Several factors determine your final compensation amount:

🔸 Severity of the Issue

More serious faults (e.g. exposed wires, collapsed ceilings) generally result in higher payouts than minor issues.

🔸 Length of Time

If the landlord ignored your complaints for weeks, months or even years, this increases your claim value.

🔸 Health Impact

If your physical or mental health suffered, you may be able to claim for pain, suffering, and medical expenses.

🔸 Proof and Documentation

Well-documented cases with photos, doctor’s notes, receipts and emails typically result in stronger compensation outcomes.

🔸 Tenant Behaviour

If you caused the damage or didn’t report the issue in a timely way, this can reduce or void your claim.

🔸 Landlord’s Response

If the landlord acted promptly or repairs were made after your first complaint, the claim value might be lower than if they ignored the issue.

4. How to Start a Housing Disrepair Claim

If you think you’re entitled to compensation:

Step-by-Step:

1. Gather Evidence

• Take photos and videos

• Save receipts, emails, and text messages

• Keep a log of your symptoms or extra costs

2. Report the Issue in Writing
Email or send a letter to your landlord—this creates a formal record.

3. Contact a Housing Disrepair Specialist
Legal professionals can help assess your case and manage the claim. Many offer no win, no fee services.

✅ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is there a time limit for making a housing disrepair claim?

Yes. In most cases, you have 6 years from the date the disrepair began (or 3 years if it involves personal injury).

Can I claim while still living in the property?

Absolutely. Most tenants make claims while still living in the property—especially if repairs haven’t been completed.

Can I claim even if the landlord has fixed the issue now?

Yes, if the repair was delayed and you suffered inconvenience or damage, you may still be entitled to backdated compensation.

Do I need to go to court?

Not usually. Most claims are settled out of court once evidence is reviewed and the landlord or their insurer agrees to settle.

Do I need legal representation?

You don’t have to, but having a solicitor improves your chances of success and ensures you get the maximum compensation you’re owed.

What if I’m receiving Housing Benefit or Universal Credit?

This doesn’t affect your right to claim. Compensation is based on the conditions of your home, not your income.

Conclusion

Compensation is about justice—not just money.
If you’ve had to live in unsafe or uncomfortable conditions due to your landlord’s neglect, it’s your right to seek redress.

From mould-related health issues to ruined furniture and unheated winters, you deserve better—and the law agrees.

👉 Check your eligibility today