If you live in council or housing association accommodation and are dealing with defective, draughty, or rattling windows, it’s important to know your rights.

Having safe, secure, and well-insulated windows is essential for your health, comfort, and energy bills, especially during colder months. 

In this blog, we’ll walk you through when your landlord is legally responsible for fixing faulty windows, how to report the issue and what to do if it isn’t resolved.

 

When is it your Landlord’s Responsibility? 

 

In council or housing association housing, your landlord is usually responsible for maintaining and repairing the windows in your home. 

Some common window problems your landlord should fix include:

• Broken or cracked panes (unless the damage was caused by you)
• Draughty windows that let in cold air due to poor seals or damage
• Faulty locks, handles, or hinges that make windows difficult to use 
• Rotting or damaged window frames
• Defective windows such as condensation between double-glazed panes
• Windows that won’t open or close properly
• Any damage that carry a security risk, such as windows that don’t lock

When is it The Tenant’s Responsibility? 

If you, your household members, or visitors accidentally or intentionally damage a window (for example, breaking or cracking a pane), you’ll need to pay for the repairs.

 

What to do if your Landlord is Delaying Repairs?

 

Sometimes landlords will fix a broken or draughty window right

 away, but other times it can be hard to get them to do it quickly.

Here is our step-by-step guide on what to do if your landlord is delaying repairs:

1. Document the Issue

The first step before reporting any sort of issue is to make sure that you have everything documented. This means taking photographs of the defective window and any impact it may be causing, such as mould starting to grow, water getting in, or even a spike in your energy bills because all the heat’s escaping.

2. Report It

Report the issue to your Landlord, this can be done by any means of communication but putting it in writing lets you keep track of your communication so you have a record. 

3. Give Them a Reasonable Time to Respond

Landlords should deal with repairs within a reasonable time, especially if the window affects your safety, warmth, or ability to live comfortably. 

4. Chase Them Up

If nothing’s happening, don’t be afraid to follow up. A polite reminder asking when the repair will be sorted is completely fair. You’re not being a nuisance, you’re asking for a safe, secure home.

5. Get Legal Help Without the Upfront Cost

If you’ve reported the issue, followed up, and you’re still stuck with a broken or draughty window, don’t worry, you don’t have to deal with it alone.

At Liberay Legal, we understand how frustrating and exhausting this can be. That’s why we offer expert legal support on a no win, no fee basis. That means there’s no cost to you unless we successfully help you win your case.

 

You’re Entitled to a Safe, Warm Home

No one should have to live with defective windows, especially when it affects your health, safety, or bills, and your landlord has a legal duty to keep your home in good shape.

You don’t have to put up with disrepair in your home, and you don’t have to go through it alone. If your landlord won’t fix the problem, we’re here to help you take the next step and fight for a safe, comfortable place to live.

Think you’ve got a case? Get in touch with us today for a free initial assessment.